Former Barangay Ginebra players paid tribute to Kings longtime utility man Christianne "Ian" Calilan, who passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 5, following a lingering illness. 

He was 51.

Calilan had been a part of the Kings franchise since joining the team's utility staff in 1999 and he was still with the team during Ginebra's game against Magnolia on Sunday, Aug. 2.

He also came from a well-known basketball family, with his father, Cris Calilan, having been a member of the legendary 1976 Crispa grand slam team and grandfather Francisco "Kiko" Calilan who was part of the men’s national team that won the country’s first basketball gold in the Asian Games in 1951.

The news of his passing prompted an outpouring of sympathy from the Ginebra community, with players, coaches and staff rallying to extend support to Calilan's family.

Among those who paid tribute were former Ginebra stars Jayjay Helterbrand and Jared Dillinger, both of whom shared heartfelt messages on social media.

"For more than two decades, Ian faithfully served the team as its dedicated ball boy and utility staff, becoming a familiar and cherished presence since joining the franchise in 1999. More than his role, he was family to many within the organization," Helterbrand wrote on his official Facebook page.

"Among those who shared a bond with Ian was Jayjay Helterbrand. Through countless games, victories, and unforgettable moments, their bond reflected the strong family culture that has always defined Barangay Ginebra," he added.

Dillinger also expressed disbelief over Calilan's passing.

"I still can't believe you're gone brother," he wrote.

"As we get older, we realize that life has a painful way of taking people and moments away from us. Learning how to carry that loss is one of the hardest parts of life, something none of us are ever truly prepared for."

"We're going to miss you, Ian. I'm grateful we became so close during those bubble championship days. I miss you already, my man," he added.