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Tag: June Mar Fajardo

  • “We are doing this all for San Miguel”: June Mar Fajardo prioritizes championships over individual accolades

    “We are doing this all for San Miguel”: June Mar Fajardo prioritizes championships over individual accolades

    From the moment the San Miguel Beermen seized control on Sunday night, the outcome felt inevitable—less a question of “if” and more a question of “when.” By the time the final buzzer echoed through the Mall of Asia Arena, the Beermen were once again standing atop the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), affirming their status as one of the league’s most decorated and dominant franchises.

     

    Central to San Miguel’s triumph was June Mar Fajardo, whose imposing presence in the paint and consistent all-around excellence carried the Beermen to a 92-77 victory over TNT Tropang Giga, clinching the 4-2 series win in the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup Finals. Fajardo’s performance in Game 6—a staggering 29 points and 23 rebounds—was a reminder of why he remains the face of Philippine basketball. Time and again, he demonstrated his ability to influence the game on both ends of the floor, whether by dominating the boards, scoring efficiently, or anchoring the defense.

     

    Adding to the historic resonance of the night, PBA legend Ramon Fernandez, a former mentor of Fajardo, watched from courtside as his protégé delivered a performance for the ages. In a symbolic moment linking past and present, Fajardo was awarded the first-ever Finals MVP trophy named in Fernandez’s honor—a fitting tribute to both the legend and the league’s current standard-bearer. Across the six-game series, Fajardo averaged 19.7 points, 18.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game, earning his fifth PBA Finals MVP award, a record-breaking achievement that surpasses the four-time winners Danny Seigle, LA Tenorio, and James Yap, and cements his place as the player with the most Finals MVP trophies in league history.

     

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    The victory also marked Fajardo’s 12th PBA championship, reinforcing his standing among the league’s all-time greats. While he has approached the legendary mark of 19 titles set by Fernandez, Fajardo remains focused on the present and his contributions to the team rather than chasing records.

    “Chasing titles is not on my mind. What I aim for is winning championships. That’s what I want, I want to win more titles while I’m here. Of course, that record’s still pretty far away, right? I just want championships,” Fajardo said in a media interaction.

     

    He also highlighted the importance of the San Miguel legacy, crediting the team’s winning culture for his continued success.

     

    “Of course, before I got here, San Miguel already had its winning ways, right? So we are doing this all for San Miguel. We want to represent and help San Miguel win more championships. That’s what we want to do and that’s why we are here now,” he added.

     

    The Beermen’s latest title is a testament not only to Fajardo’s dominance but also to the depth, chemistry, and experience of the San Miguel roster. Veterans such as Chris Ross and Marcio Lassiter provided steady leadership, while younger contributors stepped up in crucial moments, allowing Fajardo to impose his will in the paint. Together, the team exemplified a championship formula that combines star power, tactical discipline, and a culture of winning passed down over decades.

     

    For June Mar Fajardo, the focus remains singular: continuing to compete at the highest level and helping San Miguel capture more championships. While records and accolades are a natural byproduct of his sustained excellence, the towering center’s priorities are clear—winning titles for the Beermen and representing the franchise with pride.

     

    As the PBA season progresses, fans and analysts alike will continue to watch Fajardo’s pursuit of history, knowing that each championship brings him closer to further cementing his legacy among the greatest to ever play in the league.

     

     

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  • “He is the reason why we have won many championships”: June Mar Fajardo praises Leo Austria

    “He is the reason why we have won many championships”: June Mar Fajardo praises Leo Austria

    From the opening tip, San Miguel Beer signaled that they were in full control on Sunday night, turning what could have been a tense Finals series into a showcase of dominance. By the time the final buzzer sounded at the Mall of Asia Arena, the Beermen had once again cemented their status atop the PBA, defeating TNT, 92–77, to close out the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup Finals in six games.

     

    At the heart of this triumph was June Mar Fajardo, the nine-time PBA MVP who has become synonymous with championship pedigree. Fajardo produced a performance for the ages, pouring in 29 points while pulling down 23 rebounds, demonstrating the kind of impact that only a generational talent can consistently deliver. His commanding presence on both ends of the floor lifted the Beermen when it mattered most, and it earned him the league’s first-ever Finals MVP trophy, named in honor of PBA legend and former mentor Ramon Fernandez, who watched the milestone moment from courtside.

     

    San Miguel head coach Leo Austria, true to form, deflected praise from himself, instead attributing the team’s success to his players. But Fajardo was quick to highlight the coach’s influence, insisting that Austria doesn’t get nearly enough credit for shaping the Beermen’s winning culture.

     

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    “He is one of the great coaches of the PBA. He hasn’t been given too much credit, but he is such a humble person and he is the reason why we have won many championships,” Fajardo said during the postmatch press conference.

    “He lets us play our game, and I guess that’s why the players were able to show what they can bring on the court. He is so composed, and it starts with practice because he really instills a lot of discipline,” he added.

     

    The path to this title almost seemed preordained. San Miguel dominated the elimination round with a 9-2 record, showcasing the depth and experience that would carry them deep into the playoffs. The Beermen dismantled NLEX in the quarterfinals and survived a tough semifinal battle against Barangay Ginebra, riding a 10-game winning streak that stretched from the eliminations into the playoffs. Even after a surprising loss in Game 1 of the Finals, the team never wavered, leaning on their veteran leadership, strategic depth, and Fajardo’s unparalleled ability to rise in high-stakes moments.

     

    This victory marks San Miguel’s second consecutive Philippine Cup crown, their eighth in the last 11 seasons, and the 31st championship in franchise history. Beyond the numbers, it’s a reaffirmation of an era—the Beermen are not just winning titles; they are defining a dynasty in Philippine basketball.

     

    With Fajardo anchoring the lineup, Austria guiding from the bench, and a roster stacked with both seasoned veterans and emerging talents, San Miguel Beer continues to set the standard in the PBA. As the confetti settled and the Finals MVP trophy was hoisted, one thing became clear: this is a team that doesn’t merely chase championships—they reinvent excellence every season.

     

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  • June Mar Fajardo makes history, wins fifth PBA Finals MVP in San Miguel’s Philippine Cup victory

    June Mar Fajardo makes history, wins fifth PBA Finals MVP in San Miguel’s Philippine Cup victory

    From the moment the San Miguel Beermen took control on Sunday night, the outcome felt inevitable—less a matter of “if” and more a matter of “when.” By the time the final buzzer sounded at the Mall of Asia Arena, San Miguel was once again standing atop the Philippine Basketball Association, cementing its legacy as one of the league’s most dominant franchises.

     

    Central to the Beermen’s victory was June Mar Fajardo, whose towering presence in the paint and consistent all-around brilliance lifted San Miguel to a 92-77 triumph over TNT Tropang Giga, completing a 4-2 series victory in the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup Finals. Fajardo’s stat line—29 points and 23 rebounds in Game 6 alone—was a testament to his enduring dominance, and he repeatedly showcased why he is considered the face of Philippine basketball.

     

    Adding to the historic weight of the night, PBA legend and former mentor Ramon Fernandez watched from courtside as Fajardo delivered a performance befitting history. The league’s nine-time Most Valuable Player was awarded the first-ever Finals MVP trophy named in Fernandez’s honor, a fitting tribute to both the past and the present. Across the six-game series, Fajardo averaged 19.7 points, 18.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game, earning his fifth PBA Finals MVP award—breaking the tie with Danny Seigle, LA Tenorio, and James Yap, and making him the player with the most Finals MVP trophies in league history.

     

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    Mar Fajardo expressed his deep honor at being the inaugural recipient of a trophy named after his idol.

    “Isang karangalan. Nakakatuwa isipin na ako yung kauna-unahang makakuha ng trophy na ‘to, na nakapangalan kay Don Ramon Fernandez. Siya mismo ang nag-abot sa akin ng trophy, kaya isang karangalan,” Fajardo said.

     

    The 36-year-old big man, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in PBA history, remains humble despite comparisons to Fernandez. While some circles even place him above the league legend, Fajardo insists that championships, not individual accolades, remain his primary focus.

     

    “For sure isa ‘to sa mga highlights ng championship na ‘to. Nasa taas ‘to ng trophy case ko. Isa siya sa mga nilu-look up ko. Hindi naman sa hinahabol ko, pero yung habol ko lang, championships. Gusto ko pang manalo habang nandito pa ako. Bago pa ako dumating sa San Miguel, may willing culture na. Tumulong lang talaga kami,” he added, reflecting on the team-first mentality that has defined San Miguel over the years.

     

    The Philippine Cup victory marked Fajardo’s 12th PBA championship, further solidifying his status among the league’s all-time greats. Despite this milestone, he still trails Fernandez, who captured a record 19 PBA titles over his illustrious career, the most in league history.

     

    Fajardo’s dominance, consistency, and humility exemplify why he is widely seen as a generational talent capable of redefining the PBA landscape. With the Finals MVP honor now permanently linked to his name in history alongside Fernandez, Fajardo’s legacy continues to grow, proving that even in his 30s, he remains the cornerstone of a franchise—and a standard-bearer for Philippine basketball excellence.

     

     

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  • San Miguel claims PBA Philippine Cup title behind June Mar Fajardo’s monster game 

    San Miguel claims PBA Philippine Cup title behind June Mar Fajardo’s monster game 

    From the moment San Miguel Beer took control on Sunday night, the result felt less like a question and more like a matter of timing. When the final buzzer sounded at the Mall of Asia Arena, the Beermen were once again champions—powered by a familiar force who continues to redefine dominance in the PBA.

     

    June Mar Fajardo authored yet another defining performance, pouring in 29 points and hauling down 23 rebounds to lift San Miguel to a 92-77 victory over TNT and a 4-2 closeout of the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup Finals. 

     

    With PBA legend and former mentor Ramon Fernandez watching from courtside, the league’s nine-time MVP delivered a night worthy of history, earning the first-ever Finals MVP trophy named in Fernandez’s honor.

     

    San Miguel dictated the tone early, racing to a commanding 26-10 lead by the end of the opening quarter and stretching the margin to as much as 21 points. TNT mounted a late push in the fourth period, briefly threatening to turn momentum, but Fajardo made sure the window stayed shut.

     

     His control of the paint and timely scoring steadied the Beermen, including a four-point stretch that capped an 8-0 run and pushed a slim 70-68 lead into a more decisive 78-68 cushion.

     

    The championship effort was far from a one-man show. CJ Perez played the role of steady secondary star with 19 points, four rebounds, and seven assists, while Rodney Brondial provided muscle inside with 15 points and 13 boards. 

     

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    San Miguel’s depth once again proved to be the separator when the game demanded poise.

    On the other side, TNT found sparks but not enough answers. Calvin Oftana caught fire from deep, finishing with 28 points and seven rebounds on 6-of-9 shooting from beyond the arc, while Jordan Heading added 14 points, hitting three triples of his own.

     

     Still, the Tropang 5G were left with another runner-up finish in the Philippine Cup—once again blocked by San Miguel’s championship machine.

     

    This title run felt almost preordained. San Miguel topped the elimination round with a 9-2 record, dispatched NLEX in the quarterfinals, outlasted Barangay Ginebra in the semifinals, and stitched together a 10-game winning streak that stretched from the eliminations into the playoffs. even after dropping Game 1 of the Finals, the Beermen never wavered, leaning on depth, experience, and a centerpiece who thrives when the stakes are highest.

     

    With its second straight Philippine Cup crown, eighth in the last 11 seasons, and 31st championship overall, San Miguel didn’t just win another title—it reaffirmed an era.

     

     And at the center of it all stood June Mar Fajardo, still carrying banners, still setting standards, and still reminding the league that dynasties don’t fade quietly. 

     

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  • June Mar Fajardo wins record 13th PBA Best Player of the Conference award

    June Mar Fajardo wins record 13th PBA Best Player of the Conference award

    San Miguel Beermen superstar June Mar Fajardo continues to solidify his reputation as one of the most dominant figures in Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) history. At 36 years old, the towering center has already amassed a record nine PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, a feat unmatched in the modern era of the league and one that firmly establishes him as a generational talent.

     

    Adding another milestone to his storied career, Fajardo claimed a record-extending 13th PBA Best Player of the Conference (BPC) award on Wednesday, January 28, ahead of San Miguel’s Game 4 Finals matchup against TNT Tropang Giga at the Mall of Asia Arena. The achievement not only highlights Fajardo’s continued excellence but also underscores his consistency and dominance across multiple seasons.

     

    The 6-foot-10 center earned the honor by topping the Statistical Points (SP) leaderboard through the semifinals stage. Fajardo averaged 16.5 points, 16.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, clearly outpacing fellow contenders such as Titan Ultra Giant Risers’ Calvin Abueva, Converge FiberXers’ Juan Gomez de Liano and Justine Baltazar, and Magnolia Hotshots’ Zavier Lucero. His ability to influence every facet of the game—scoring, rebounding, and playmaking—set him apart from his peers.

     

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    Despite yet another prestigious accolade, Fajardo remained grounded and focused on what truly matters to him: helping San Miguel retain their Philippine Cup title.

    “Di ko iniisip yung awards. Iniisip ko palagi: ‘Wala akong napapamalunang championships at awards,’” Fajardo said, highlighting his team-first mentality even amid personal triumphs.

     

    In the official tally, Fajardo amassed a total of 1,246 votes, comfortably ahead of Gomez de Liano in second place with 732 votes. Abueva placed third with 622 votes, Baltazar was fourth with 456, and Lucero rounded out the top five with 420 votes, illustrating the wide margin by which Fajardo dominated the BPC race.

     

    The win also marked the fourth time in the last five PBA conferences that Fajardo has been awarded the BPC, a testament to his sustained superiority. No player in PBA history has won more than five BPC awards, a record currently held jointly by TNT icon Jayson Castro and San Miguel legend Danny Ildefonso, further emphasizing the extraordinary nature of Fajardo’s accomplishment.

     

    Beyond statistics and trophies, Fajardo’s impact on the league is immeasurable. From mentoring younger teammates to anchoring San Miguel’s championship aspirations, he remains the linchpin of one of the PBA’s most successful franchises. As the Finals intensify against TNT, all eyes will be on Fajardo—not just as an award-winning superstar, but as the pivotal force driving the Beermen’s quest to extend their Philippine Cup legacy.

     

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  • June Mar Fajardo on track to claim record 13th Best Player of the Conference award

    June Mar Fajardo on track to claim record 13th Best Player of the Conference award

    San Miguel Beermen superstar June Mar Fajardo continues to solidify his status as one of the most dominant figures in Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) history. At 36 years old, the towering center has already claimed a record nine PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, a feat unmatched in the modern era of the league and one that cements his legacy as a generational talent.

     

    Fajardo’s brilliance has been on full display once again during the ongoing Philippine Cup campaign. Leading the Beermen to yet another finals appearance, he has emerged as the clear frontrunner for the Best Player of the Conference (BPC) award. If he secures the honor, it would mark the 13th time he has claimed the distinction, further solidifying his place among the league’s all-time greats.

     

    The statistical race highlights Fajardo’s continued dominance. He currently leads with 44.3 statistical points (SPs), slightly down from his previous average of 45.4 SPs at the end of the quarterfinal stage. Despite the minor dip, he remains comfortably ahead of second-placed Calvin Abueva of the Titan Ultra Kings, who has accumulated 41.2 SPs. Rookie sensation Juan Gomez de Liano is in third with 37.2 SPs after a sensational debut season with the Converge FiberXers, while Justine Baltazar is fourth with 37.2 SPs. Zavier Lucero rounds out the top five with 33.8 SPs, showing that Fajardo still stands head and shoulders above the competition.

     

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    While accolades and personal milestones continue to follow him, Fajardo remains characteristically humble, emphasizing the importance of team success over individual awards.

    “Di ko iniisip yun. Sa isip ko, lagi ako walang napanalunan na championships, wala akong napanalunan na awards. Kaya yun ang nagda-drive sa akin na sana this conference, makakuha ako ng first championship ko, makakuha ako ng first award ko,” Fajardo said during a media interaction.

     

    Those words reflect the mindset that has defined Fajardo throughout his illustrious career: an unwavering focus on team achievement and a relentless drive to bring championships to San Miguel Beer. It is a mentality that has helped him maintain his dominance, even as younger stars such as Abueva, Gomez de Liano, Baltazar, and Lucero continue to rise in the league.

     

    In the Philippine Cup Finals, Fajardo has been nothing short of a force of nature. Across three appearances, he is averaging 19.0 points, 20.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, guiding the Beermen to a 2-1 series lead. His ability to control the paint, dominate the boards, and anchor the team defensively has been pivotal in keeping San Miguel in strong contention for yet another championship.

     

    Fajardo’s sustained excellence serves as a testament to both his skill and his dedication to the game. Even as the PBA continues to produce new stars and emerging talent, he remains the benchmark against which all others are measured. Whether it’s through record-breaking MVP wins, statistical dominance, or his quiet leadership on and off the court, June Mar Fajardo continues to define what it means to be one of the greatest players in PBA history.

     

    As the finals progress, all eyes will remain on Fajardo, not just for his individual performances but for the leadership and composure he brings to the Beermen. If San Miguel Beer captures the Philippine Cup, it will be another chapter in the storied career of a player whose name is already synonymous with excellence in Philippine basketball.

     

     

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  • “May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

    “May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga seemed to have Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals firmly under control. The Tropang Giga dictated the tempo, executed their game plan with precision, and built what looked like a comfortable lead against the San Miguel Beermen. But as is often the case in championship basketball, early dominance is rarely enough to secure victory. When the pressure mounted in the fourth quarter and the margin for error shrank, it was TNT’s composure, discipline, and timely execution that ultimately carried the day.

     

    TNT survived a furious late rally by the defending champions to escape with a 96–91 win in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The victory gave the Tropang Giga a critical 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and immediately set the tone for what promises to be a hard-fought, tightly contested championship matchup.

     

    Offensively, TNT leaned on a balanced team effort, with six players scoring in double figures. The Tropang Giga consistently punished San Miguel whenever defensive lapses occurred, ensuring they stayed ahead despite the Beermen’s relentless push. While the scoring was evenly distributed, veteran forward Kelly Williams quietly anchored TNT’s performance on both ends of the floor. The former PBA Most Valuable Player finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists — numbers that only partially reflected his overall impact. Williams’ calm leadership and ability to make crucial plays under pressure helped keep TNT in control during San Miguel’s late surge.

     

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    For the Beermen, record-holding PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo continued to assert his dominance in the paint, delivering a monster 24-point, 17-rebound performance. Despite his valiant efforts, San Miguel fell short in the end. Still, Fajardo remains optimistic about the series, acknowledging that a single game does not determine the championship.

    “Long series ‘to. ‘Di magiging madaling series ‘to para sa’min. May chance pa naman kami. Malayo pa ‘yan. So kailangan naming mag-bounce back. Kailangan naming mag-regroup,” Fajardo said after the game.

     

    The Beermen found themselves trailing by as much as 19 points in the first half, but they showed why they are the reigning champions. With improved defensive pressure, sharper execution, and a renewed sense of urgency, San Miguel clawed their way back in the second half, eventually cutting TNT’s lead to a single possession in the final moments. The rally, while ultimately not enough, demonstrated the team’s resilience and ability to adjust mid-game.

     

    Fajardo drew inspiration from his team’s comeback effort and believes San Miguel can carry that momentum into Game 2.

     

    “Yong bigs nila, tumitira sa labas. Ang dami nilang na-shoot na threes and ang laki ng hinabol naming noong first half. Talo kami sa first half pero panalo kami sa second half. Bawi na lang,” he said, highlighting the adjustments his team made in the second half and the lessons they will carry forward.

     

    Game 2 is scheduled for Friday, January 23, once again at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The Beermen will look to respond and level the series, while TNT will aim to build on its early momentum and tighten its grip on the championship. With both teams showcasing their depth, talent, and championship pedigree, fans can expect another thrilling encounter as the Philippine Cup Finals continues.

     

    As the series unfolds, attention will likely remain on TNT’s veteran leadership, San Miguel’s ability to adjust defensively, and how stars like Fajardo and Williams influence the series’ pivotal moments. One thing is certain: the battle for the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup is just beginning, and Game 2 promises to be another showcase of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.

     

     

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  • June Mar Fajardo cements icon status with seventh SMC-PSA Mr. Basketball award

    June Mar Fajardo cements icon status with seventh SMC-PSA Mr. Basketball award

    In an era where greatness is often measured by fleeting peaks, June Mar Fajardo has made longevity his loudest statement.

     

    The most dominant force in Philippine basketball today will once again take center stage at the San Miguel Corporation–Philippine Sportswriters Association (SMC-PSA) Awards Night on February 16 at the Diamond Hotel Manila, joining the country’s top volleyball stars as one of the evening’s major honorees.

     

    For Fajardo, the recognition is familiar—but no less significant. The 35-year-old San Miguel cornerstone will be honored for the seventh time, a testament to a career that continues to redefine sustained excellence in local basketball.

     

    Season 49 of the PBA served as yet another reminder of why the 6-foot-11 center remains the league’s gold standard.

     

    Fajardo etched his name deeper into the record books by securing an unprecedented ninth Most Valuable Player award, leading the Beermen to their 11th Philippine Cup championship at the expense of TNT—once again denying the Tropang Giga a coveted Grand Slam.

     

    Even as new stars emerge, Fajardo’s impact has not waned. During the most recent Philippine Cup eliminations, he posted averages of 16.5 points, 16.6 rebounds—best in the league—and 4.4 assists per game, while becoming the first local player to record three straight 20-point, 20-rebound outings.

     

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    His influence extends beyond the PBA hardwood. A Gilas Pilipinas mainstay since 2014, Fajardo remains the team’s anchor in international play. 

     

    He suited up for the national squad in the FIBA Asia Cup in Saudi Arabia and the opening window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, where his steady presence helped power the Philippines to a 2–0 start.

     

    In that qualifying window, Fajardo averaged 7.5 points and 6.5 rebounds as the team’s starting center—numbers that may not scream dominance but underscore his enduring value as a stabilizing force against Asia’s best.

     

    As the PSA once again honors him, Fajardo’s career continues to stand as proof that true greatness isn’t just about peak moments—but about showing up, year after year, and still being the standard everyone else is measured against.

     

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  • June Mar Fajardo downplays talk of winning 13th PBA Best Player of the Conference award

    June Mar Fajardo downplays talk of winning 13th PBA Best Player of the Conference award

    San Miguel Beermen superstar June Mar Fajardo continues to cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) history. The 36-year-old center’s accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable, having already claimed a record nine PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, an achievement that has earned him recognition as one of the most dominant forces in the league’s modern era.

     

    Fajardo’s brilliance has been on full display once again this Philippine Cup campaign. Leading the Beermen to yet another finals appearance, he is the clear frontrunner for the Best Player of the Conference (BPC) award, which, if secured, would mark the 13th time he has claimed the honor. Despite the accolades and the attention surrounding individual awards, Fajardo has remained characteristically humble, choosing to prioritize team success over personal milestones.

     

    “Hindi ko iniisip yan. Like I have been saying, I always think of it as, I haven’t won anything. I haven’t won a championship, I haven’t won any awards, those thoughts really drive me,” Fajardo said during a pre-match press conference, underlining his focus on the ultimate goal: leading San Miguel to another Philippine Cup title.

     

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    Statistically, Fajardo has once again proven why he is the centerpiece of the Beermen. At the conclusion of the Philippine Cup quarterfinal stage, he led the league with averages of 17.4 points, 15.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game, while also topping the BPC race with 45.4 Statistical Points (SPs). These numbers highlight not just his scoring ability, but his all-around impact on both ends of the floor, from dominating the boards to facilitating offense and protecting the rim.

    “I think of it as, in this conference, I hope I win my first championship or award. It really drives me,” Fajardo added, emphasizing that his motivation comes from contributing to team success rather than personal accolades.

     

    San Miguel now sets its sights on defending its Philippine Cup crown as they prepare to face the TNT Tropang Giga in the finals. Game 1 is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, and Fajardo will be aiming to capture his 12th PBA championship in the process.

     

    As the Beermen gear up for the championship series, much of the focus will once again be on Fajardo, whose presence in the paint has been a key factor in San Miguel’s sustained dominance. TNT, however, presents a formidable challenge, boasting a deep roster and resilient playoff pedigree, ensuring that Fajardo and the Beermen will need to bring their A-game if they hope to continue their dynasty.

     

    For fans, the finals promise to showcase the full spectrum of Fajardo’s talents—from his scoring efficiency to his defensive prowess—while also testing his leadership in guiding a championship-caliber team. As the league waits to see if he can add another title to his storied career, one thing remains clear: June Mar Fajardo’s focus has always been on winning for San Miguel first, and the awards will follow.

     

     

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  • “I still came up short”: June Mar Fajardo reflects after San Miguel fall to Barangay Ginebra

    “I still came up short”: June Mar Fajardo reflects after San Miguel fall to Barangay Ginebra

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel drew first blood in the Philippine Cup semifinals, edging longtime rivals San Miguel Beermen 99–90 in Game 1 on Sunday, January 4, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    The Gin Kings will be grateful for the opening victory, as San Miguel’s record nine-time PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) June Mar Fajardo delivered a heroic performance. The 36-year-old finished with 23 points, 21 rebounds, and three blocks in 40 minutes, though his efforts were largely unsupported by his teammates.

     

    Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone acknowledged his team’s fortune in escaping with the win, while also praising Fajardo for his dominance on the court.

     

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    Despite the accolades, Fajardo admitted he was dissatisfied with his overall performance.

    “I still came up short, because we lost. We need to bounce back, we need to regroup,” he said after the game.

     

    One area where Fajardo struggled was at the free-throw line, missing seven of his 12 attempts. Part of the difficulty could be attributed to the defensive pressure applied by Ginebra’s big men, Japeth Aguilar and Norbert Torres. Torres, in particular, committed five fouls on Fajardo in an effort to curb his influence.

     

    “We obviously played a tag team on Fajardo with Japeth Aguilar and Norbert. They did the best they could. It’s physically daunting to guard a guy that big and strong. Both Aguilar and Torres were exhausted just guarding a single guy,” Cone said.

     

    “He is just that kind of player. Wow. He played the whole fourth quarter too, the whole 12 minutes of the fourth quarter. So amazing, man,” he added.

     

    Despite Fajardo’s heroics, Barangay Ginebra’s balanced approach and resilience carried the day, giving them a crucial 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven semifinal series. Fajardo will hope to continue his strong form and get more support from his teammates when the two squads meet again in Game 2 on Wednesday, January 7, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

     

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