By REYNALD MAGALLON
June Mar Fajardo stood tall from every adversity and found his way back atop the summit of success.
The San Miguel Beer star further embellished an already legendary career, winning a record-extending seventh Most Valuable Player award during the PBA Season 47 Leo Awards on Sunday, Nov. 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Fajardo, who won the top plum for six straight years from 2013 to 2021, beat last season’s winner and Barangay Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson, Christian Standhardinger and fellow Beermen CJ Perez in a runaway fashion
The Cebuano gentle giant accumulated a total of 2248 points (852 from the media, 152 from the players and 1244 from the statistical points) – a far cry from the closest pursuer in Standhardinger with 1559 points.
Thompson came in third in the race with 1539 points while Perez finished fourth with 1177 points.
It was an award that came as a huge surprise for Fajardo especially after having doubts whether he can still return to top form after suffering a devastating tibia fracture three years ago.
“Masaya ako na nakakauha uli ako ng MVP. Di ko talaga ineexpect na makakuha ako ng isa panag MVP kasi nung nainjure ako, sa totoo lang di ko na nga rin ineexpect na makakabalik pa ako makakacompete ako sa ganitong level ulit after ng injury ko,” said Fajardo.
Fajardo’s return to form not only allowed him to earn another MVP award but also a First Mythical team and All Defensive team citations. Joining Fajardo in the mythical team are the other MVP nominees in Standhardinger, Thompson, Perez along with Ginebra’s Jamie Malonzo.
The Second Mythical team, on the other hand, was composed of TNT’s Calvin Oftana and Mikey Williams, Magnolia’s Calvin Abueva, and NorthPort’s Robert Bolick and Arvin Tolentino.
With Fajardo in the All Defensive team are Standhardinger, Magnolia’s Jio Jalalon and Meralco’s Chris Newsome and Cliff Hodge.
Converge big man Justin Arana emerged as the top rookie of the season while Ginebra’s Maverick Ahanmisi won the Most Improved player award. Kevin Alas also bagged the Sportsmanship award.
