Dominicans’ ‘NBA’ passes on

MANILA, Philippines — The Dominican Republic has lost a “pillar” in its national team.

Bladimir Regalado, the Dominican Republic national team physiotherapist, passed away due to a heart attack during the team’s flight back home after a memorable FIBA World Cup stint in the Philippines.

“With deep sadness, we report the death of Bladimir Regalado, physiotherapist of our National Team, who suffered a heart attack on the flight back from the Philippines, where he accompanied our team in the FIBA World Cup 2023,” the team said.

“We are deeply sorry for this loss and send our condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. Bladimir Regalado was a fundamental pillar in the team, dedicated and passionate about his work. Peace to your soul.”

Regalado is fondly known as “NBA” for staff, coaches and players of the Dominican Republic, who are dedicating their impressive World Cup run to him.

“His efforts and commitment to the world of Dominican basketball will always be remembered. Rest in peace, NBA.”

It was Regalado who made the viral team introduction on Karl-Anthony Towns when he officially joined the Dominican Republic’s training camp for the World Cup.

“This one hurts. My last words to you were ‘I love you’. Rest in peace, NBA,” said Towns, who led the team’s tough World Cup stand.

The Dominican Republic, with Regalado taking good care of the entire squad, swept Group A against Gilas Pilipinas – in front of a record-breaking crowd of 38,115 fans at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan – Angola and Italy to make it to the second round.

But the Dominicans bowed to Serbia and Puerto Rico in the second round to fall short of advancing to the quarterfinals.

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) also paid tribute to Regalado.

“The entire FIBA team sends its love and heartfelt condolences to Selección Dominicana de Baloncesto and the family of team physiotherapist Bladimir Regalado who tragically passed away while traveling home from the World Cup,” the federation said.

Bladimir will be dearly missed by all. Rest in peace.