WORLD champion Boston Celtics players met Manny Pacquiao in his room moments after the Filipino boxer captured the World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight crown Saturday at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The Celtics, led by the Big 3--Kevin Garnett, Rey Allen and Paul Pierce--posed with Pacquiao for photo shoot and chanted "Manny, Manny" to the delight of the Filipino superstar, who won his fourth title in four different weight classes.
"He's great man," Garnett said of the 29-year-old Pacquiao, who rooted for the Celtics against the Los Angeles Lakers during the recent NBA finals.
Garnett is Pacquiao's favorite player.
The Boston Celtics dribblers watched the bout at the Mandalay Bay Events Center.
They reportedly bought 16 tickets to watch and support Pacquiao in his fight.
Pacquiao didn't disappoint them, beating Diaz via a 9th round knockout.
Meanwhile, Malaca¤ang praised Pacquiao for his courageous win over the tough Diaz.
"Manny once again showed the sterling quality of excellence of a Filipino at his best. We rejoice with the whole nation in his victory, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said as quoted by Press Secretary Jesys Dureza in a statement from San Francisco.
