June Mar Fajardo, the six-time PBA Most Valuable Player, has made a triumphant return—both physically and mentally—to his dominant form. Once plagued by injury, Fajardo is now pain-free and back to doing what he does best: anchoring the San Miguel Beermen with his signature double-double performances and unmatched inside presence.
“Wala ng injury,” Fajardo said, emphasizing his renewed health and mindset as the Beermen gear up for the crucial end stretch of their PBA Philippine Cup semifinal clash against Barangay Ginebra.
Game 4 Breakthrough: A Statement Win
In Game 4, San Miguel delivered a powerful statement with a 107-82 blowout over the Gin Kings, evening the best-of-seven series at 2-2. The turning point came during a third-quarter explosion, where the Beermen outscored Ginebra 30-12, flipping the momentum decisively in their favor.
Fajardo played a pivotal role in that run, starting the game and logging extended minutes for the first time in the series. His presence alone visibly boosted the team’s energy and defensive intensity, creating space and rhythm for his teammates to capitalize.
Fajardo’s Leadership Shines
SMB head coach Leo Austria credited Fajardo’s decision to start Game 4 as a key moment that changed the team’s mindset. After a frustrating Game 3 loss, Fajardo took the initiative to reinsert himself into the starting five, signaling his readiness to lead.
“Because of the frustrating result of Game 3, he made up his mind. That gave me confidence he’s feeling well,” said Austria. “Ibang-iba ‘yung laro niya, ‘yung focus niya sa game.”
That renewed focus materialized as Fajardo teamed up with CJ Perez, Juami Tiongson, and Rodney Brondial for a devastating 17-0 third-quarter run that stretched their lead to 73-58 and left Ginebra scrambling.
Ginebra’s Dilemma: Close, But Not Enough
Despite a strong first half where they led 51-50, the Gin Kings collapsed under San Miguel’s unrelenting surge in the third period. It wasn’t just about scoring—the Beermen were simply sharper, faster, and more connected on both ends of the court.
Coach Tim Cone and his squad still have reasons to remain optimistic. The series is tied, meaning it’s essentially down to a best-of-three to determine who advances to the finals. However, the psychological edge may now lean toward San Miguel, especially with Fajardo back at full strength.
What’s Next: A Crucial Game 5
Game 5 looms large. With the series tied at 2-2, both squads are entering the most crucial phase of the semifinal war. The Beermen, now reinvigorated by their superstar’s return and Game 4 dominance, will look to build on their momentum. Meanwhile, Ginebra must regroup and counter the adjustments made by their opponents—particularly the reemergence of Fajardo as a commanding force inside the paint.
San Miguel’s win not only evened the series but also sent a clear message: The Kraken has risen, and so has the Beermen’s championship hopes.