JUNE Mar Fajardo may have played his final game for Gilas Pilipinas, but the nine-time PBA MVP is leaving the national team confident about what comes next.
Following the Philippines’ 68-56 victory over Iran on Sunday, Fajardo reflected on a changing Gilas generation, with the veteran big man now following Japeth Aguilar in stepping away from international duty.
“Sobrang-sobrang pleasure. Ang future ng Gilas, kita naman natin basta healthy lang lagi,” Fajardo said when asked about the national team’s future.
Fajardo, however, made sure to contribute before bidding farewell.
He scored six points and grabbed two rebounds against Iran, helping Gilas recover from an early deficit and take control of the game in the second quarter.
“Kung ano iyung pwede ko itulong, ibibigay ko,” Fajardo said.
It was a fitting final contribution from a player who has been part of the Gilas program since its early years.
The home crowd also made sure to give Fajardo a memorable sendoff, repeatedly chanting “MVP” during the game.
The veteran center responded with gratitude to the supporters who came to the Mall of Asia Arena to witness what could be his final appearance in the Philippine colors.
“Maraming-maraming salamat sa mga fans, sa mga supporters sa akin,” Fajardo said.
“Maraming salamat sa mga fans na nagpunta talaga dito para suportahan kami. Maraming salamat sa inyo. Sa mga patuloy pang sumusuporta.”
With Fajardo now passing the torch, Kai Sotto is among the players expected to carry the Gilas frontcourt into the future.
And Fajardo appeared more than comfortable leaving that responsibility to the young 7-foot-3 center.
“Sabi ko nga sa inyo, si Kuya Kai iyung mag-save sa atin,” Fajardo said.
After helping Gilas secure two crucial victories over Jordan and Iran, Fajardo now walks away from the national team with a win, a grateful heart and confidence that the next generation can carry the program forward. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
