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Italian coach says Pacquiao a 'true legend'

Sports | Basketball

Italian coach says Pacquiao a 'true legend'

By Manila Bulletin Sports

At A Glance

Team Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco called former eight-division boxing champion Manny Pacquiao a "true legend" following their meeting on Thursday, Aug. 31 at the latter's house.

By MARK REY MONTEJO

 

Team Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco called former eight-division boxing champion Manny Pacquiao a “true legend” following their meeting on Thursday, Aug. 31 at the latter’s house.

Italy's head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco (left) plays chess with Manny Pacquiao. (MPBL)

Pozzecco, who admitted to be a big Pacquiao fan, said he was amazed at how humble and down-to-earth the boxing icon was.

“One huge star, legend in history of sports, inviting one idiot as myself. He is such a nice person,” said Pozzecco after his team squeaked past Serbia, 78-76, on Friday, Sept. 1 in the FIBA Basketball World Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“I love him before, now I love him even more,” he added.

Pacquiao posted a picture of him and Pozzecco on his social media on Thursday, where he received an Italy jersey with “Pacquiao” on the back.

“Thank you Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco. Nice to finally meet you!” Pacquiao wrote. The two even shared a game of chess.

“It’s unbelievable, he’s a true legend,” Pozzecco said.

“He represents all of the Filipinos, because you’re that type of person, amazing. I’m so happy to be here,” he added.

The Italian mentor also took to social media his appreciation for Pacquiao for giving him and his staff some time and welcoming them to his home.

“It was a true honor to meet one of the greatest legends in the history of sport. I took the L today in chess. See you on the ring for the rematch. Thank you Mr. Pacquiao,” Pozzecco wrote.

Ever since Team Italy arrived in Manila for the tournament, Pozzecco has been expressing his desire to meet the boxer-turned-politician.

Related Tags

2023 FIBA World Cup

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