By JONAS TERRADO
San Miguel Beer star June Mar Fajardo is unfazed by a leg injury that will force him to miss at least the whole duration of the PBA Philippine Cup.
Breaking his silence Friday night, Fajardo vowed to take a positive approach as he begins his recovery from a fractured right tibia sustained earlier this week in practice.
“I already know what giving up feels like, but I want to see what (will happen) if I don’t!” Fajardo said through his Instagram account saginghilaw15. “It’s just a minor setback! God has a better plan. I’ll be right back.”
The social media post included a photo showing Fajardo’s leg wrapped with elastic bandage.
Fajardo underwent surgery Tuesday, a day after getting hurt while the Beermen were about to end their practice at the Acropolis Gym in Quezon City.
While it has ruled out Fajardo’s return during the season-opening conference, SMB didn’t give any timetable which raises speculation of a lengthier absence.
Fajardo is likely to skip Gilas Pilipinas duties for the second window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in November.
He was left out of the 24-man pool for this month’s window, with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas saying that Fajardo deserves an extended break.
“We’re devastated by that,” Gilas program director Tab Baldwin said. “He’s a member of the Gilas family and maybe one of the most integral ingredients of the Gilas family over the last several years.
“That injury is a tough injury, it’s not one that’s easy to come back from. So everybody’s gonna have to be patient with his recovery,” added Baldwin.
Past and present teammates with San Miguel and Gilas Pilipinas were quick to offer their well wishes, namely Alex Cabagnot, Marc Pingris, Paul Lee, Troy Rosario and Ranidel de Ocampo.
“I have so many people to thank but I can’t name you all,” said Fajardo. “I’ll include you in my prayers! I appreciate all your (support), love and prayers!”
