Former coach Den Velez: Divine Adili saw basketball as path out of poverty for family

MANILA, Philippines — Den Velez, Divine Adili’s first coach in the Philippines at New Era University, said the late basketball standout was like a son to him, expressing deep heartbreak and devastation upon learning of the tragic incident last Monday. Speaking to The Manila Times, Velez shared that Adili, 21, gave his all in every training session and game, fueled by his determination to provide a better life for his family. “He was very hardworking. His focus was on achieving