MANILA, Philippines – June Mar Fajardo of the San Miguel Beermen continued his impressive career in Philippine basketball during the 49th Philippine Cup, earning his 12th Best Player of the Conference (BPC) trophy. At the SM Mall of Asia Arena, the trophy was presented prior to Game 4 of the championship series, adding another feather to the already impressive player’s cap.

Fajardo topped all competitors in overall BPC points with 1,085 earned through a mix of media votes, player votes, and statistical performance. His total points were 489 according to statistical averages, 505 according to the media, and 91 according to his fellow players. The outcome was inevitable due to his dominant performance throughout the conference; he scored over 300 points more than his closest rival.

The 35-year-old led the conference in scoring (16.0%), rebounding (13.95%), assists (3.2%), and blocks (1.1%) per game. Both his consistency and the importance of his contribution in San Miguel’s campaign were highlighted by these stats. His 39.6 point average put him in first place statistically, demonstrating his impact on offense and defense.

This honor adds to Fajardo’s record-breaking number of BPC titles. He holds the record for the most decorated player in the history of the All-Filipino Philippine Cup with nine of his twelve. Additionally, he has been honored with two Governors’ Cup and one Commissioners’ Cup BPC awards. When it comes to continuous greatness, no player in league history has ever been close.

With 704 points, San Miguel colleague CJ Perez came in second place. Third place went to Robert Bolick of NLEX with 562 points, followed by Magnolia’s Zavier Lucero with 459 and Jason Perkins of Phoenix with 441. Although each of the five players had strong seasons, Fajardo was clearly the best in almost every statistical category and was a force to be reckoned with whenever he was on the court.

Fajardo had already won the title at the Governors’ Cup earlier in the year; therefore, this was his second BPC trophy of the season. In light of his most recent victory, he is in a stronger position to be named the league’s most valuable player for a record-setting ninth season.

The Beermen’s match against TNT Tropang Giga, Game 4, began shortly after the ceremony. Given Fajardo’s pivotal role in both the series and the league, the presentation was timed to perfection. Fajardo further solidified his influence in the tournament finals after being a dominating factor in San Miguel’s Game 3 victory (scoring 33 points and grabbing 11 rebounds).

San Miguel’s ascent to the top seed in the eliminations was greatly aided by Fajardo’s consistent output throughout the conference. He advanced his team to the championship game by continuing to play with a calf injury he sustained in the semifinals. He finished with a double-double. His offensive and defensive leadership on the court was vital to the Beermen’s strategy.

A key component of San Miguel’s dominating performance in the series has been his presence in the paint, rebounding control, and interior defense. The Beermen were able to capitalize on transition and set plays thanks to his court awareness and his talent for drawing double teams. Fajardo has also kept up his effective play both on the floor and on the free-throw line, consistently putting up points each game.

Entering Game 4 of the series with a 3-1 advantage, the Beermen are in a position to win the Philippine Cup tournament. Every one of San Miguel’s victories has included Fajardo, who has been a rock for the team under intense scrutiny. Now that he has the BPC trophy in his possession, he is dead set on helping the squad win back the all-Filipino title.

Not only do Fajardo’s accomplishments attest to his own genius, but they also represent the heyday of San Miguel’s domination. One of the most revered personalities in Philippine basketball, thanks to his tenacity, modesty, and dedication to the game. The chasm between him and the other greats of the league widens as he maintains his exceptional level of play.

June Mar Fajardo continues to cement his place as the PBA’s premier player and the foundation of San Miguel’s illustrious dynasty.