Philippine basketball icon makes ESPN’s top Asian athletes list

Jade Denosta July 26, 2024

SiGMA news

Philippine basketball icon makes ESPN’s top Asian athletes list

Philippine basketball icon June Mar Fajardo (pictured in centre) has cemented his status as one of Asia’s sporting legends after being named in ESPN’s Top 25 Asian Athletes of the 21st Century. The seven-times ‘PBA Most Valuable Player’ shares the spotlight in the 25th spot with fellow Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao.

The 6-foot-10 Cebuano centre’s unparalleled dominance in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has earned him global recognition. His impressive resume, highlighted by ten championships with San Miguel Beer, four Finals MVP awards, and a Defensive Player of the Year title, among others, made him a standout choice for ESPN.

***Fajardo has become synonymous with Philippines basketball over the course of his career. Source: Ernie Sarmiento/ESPN5***

“Known as ‘The Kraken,’ Fajardo has won seven MVP awards, the most in league history, and has led the San Miguel Beermen to 10 PBA championships,” ESPN lauded, accentuating Fajardo’s brilliance and hard work. The sports giant also acknowledged Fajardo’s contributions to the Philippine national team, Gilas Pilipinas, where he has been a stalwart since the 2013 FIBA Asia Championships

The ESPN recognition is yet another milestone in Fajardo’s illustrious career. Hailing from Compostela, Cebu, the “Kraken” started his basketball journey at the University of Cebu before being draughted first overall by Petron Blaze Boosters in the 2012 PBA Draft. His rookie season was marked by a silver medal with Gilas Pilipinas at the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship.

Fajardo’s route to the pinnace of sport

Fajardo, known for his formidable presence on the court, was born in 1989, in Compostela, Cebu, Philippines. Raised in the modest town of Pinamungajan, Fajardo’s journey to basketball stardom began in his youth, where his towering height and natural athleticism set him apart. He honed his skills at the University of Cebu, leading the Webmasters to multiple championships in the CESAFI league. Drafted first overall by the Petron Blaze Boosters in 2012,

Fajardo quickly became a dominant force in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). He earned seven MVP awards, the most in league history, and he has led the San Miguel Beermen to ten PBA championships. Beyond his accolades, Fajardo is celebrated for his humility and dedication, often attributing his success to hard work and perseverance.

Despite his imposing stature, those close to him describe him as a very gentle character off the court, a quality that endears him to his fans.