June Mar Fajardo in Awe of His Journey from Late Bloomer to 8-Time PBA MVP

In the world of basketball, few players have experienced the level of dominance and success that June Mar Fajardo has enjoyed in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). With his recent recognition as an 8-time PBA MVP, Fajardo’s journey has not only been one of personal triumph but also of perseverance, growth, and consistent hard work.

Fajardo, who now stands as the towering force in the PBA with an imposing 6-foot-10 frame, did not always have the star-studded trajectory one might expect from such an accomplished player. His rise from a late bloomer to the most decorated player in the league is a tale that encapsulates the very essence of overcoming adversity and embracing one’s potential.

A Humble Beginning

Before becoming the dominant force we know today, June Mar’s beginnings in basketball were far from easy. He did not arrive on the PBA scene as the highly touted, prodigious talent that many players in his position had. In fact, Fajardo was a late bloomer. He wasn’t always the towering center that could outmuscle opponents in the paint. Growing up in the small town of Pinamungahan in Cebu, Fajardo was initially overlooked. Despite showing promise in his early years, he did not immediately stand out among his peers.

His growth spurt came later, and it was during his high school years that his potential started to emerge. He played for the University of Cebu’s basketball team, where his development as a player began to take shape. Even then, Fajardo was not considered a surefire future star. His journey to prominence was gradual, and it took time for him to refine the skills and physicality needed to make an impact in the highly competitive world of collegiate and professional basketball.

The College Breakthrough

Fajardo’s collegiate career at the University of Cebu is where he first gained significant attention. Standing head and shoulders above his competitors, he quickly became a formidable presence in the paint. His ability to score, rebound, and block shots set him apart from other players in the collegiate leagues. But it was during his time with the University of Cebu Webmasters in the CESAFI (Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc.) league where he truly showcased his potential to national basketball fans.

In 2009, Fajardo made the leap to the University of San Jose-Recoletos Jaguars, and by 2010, he was invited to join the prestigious PBA draft. However, he still had to prove his worth in the highly competitive professional environment that awaited him.

The PBA Draft and Entry into the Big League

When Fajardo entered the 2012 PBA Draft, there were doubts surrounding his potential to make a significant impact. While many were aware of his size and skills, the question was whether he could adapt to the PBA’s fast-paced, high-intensity style of play. The San Miguel Beermen saw something special in him and selected Fajardo with the first overall pick.

His rookie season wasn’t filled with the instant success one might expect from an MVP-caliber player. In fact, his initial years in the league were more about finding his rhythm and adjusting to the demands of the professional game. However, as he honed his skills under the tutelage of experienced coaches and teammates, Fajardo’s growth trajectory was undeniable.

The 8-Time MVP

Fajardo’s true dominance began to shine through as he matured in the league. Over the course of the next several years, he became the undisputed leader of San Miguel, and his incredible ability to impact both ends of the floor earned him the PBA MVP award for the first time in 2014.

He wasn’t just a statistical powerhouse; his presence on the court changed the way the game was played. His size, skill set, and intelligence allowed him to be a reliable scorer, rebounder, and shot-blocker. He was consistently ranked as one of the league’s top players, and each season seemed to bring new accomplishments and milestones for the big man from Cebu.

By the time he won his eighth MVP in 2024, Fajardo had established himself as one of the greatest players in the history of the PBA. His eight MVP titles are a testament to his consistency, work ethic, and resilience. What makes Fajardo’s achievement even more impressive is the fact that he has been able to maintain his level of excellence for over a decade, a feat that is rare in a league filled with shifting rosters, changing team dynamics, and emerging young stars.

Fajardo’s Legacy

As Fajardo reflected on his journey from late bloomer to 8-time PBA MVP, he expressed both awe and humility at how far he has come. From the uncertain, unheralded player who entered the PBA to the iconic figure he is today, Fajardo’s legacy is one of perseverance and growth. His story is a reminder that success in basketball—just like in life—is not always immediate. It’s about putting in the work, improving every day, and staying focused on the bigger picture.

“I never expected to get to this point, especially coming from where I started,” Fajardo shared in an interview following his eighth MVP win. “Every year has been a journey for me, and I’m truly grateful for all the experiences, challenges, and teammates that have helped me along the way. Being named MVP eight times is something I could never have imagined, but I don’t take it for granted. It’s a reflection of all the hard work I’ve put in and all the support I’ve received.”

Looking ahead, Fajardo is still at the peak of his career and continues to be a dominant force in the PBA. His legacy is already cemented, but his desire to improve and lead his team to championships remains strong. Despite the accolades and achievements, Fajardo remains grounded, always keeping his focus on what’s next rather than basking in past glory.

As June Mar Fajardo continues to play at an elite level, it’s clear that his journey is far from over. His transformation from a late bloomer to one of the most decorated players in PBA history serves as an inspiration to players who may face similar struggles and challenges. Fajardo’s story proves that with determination, hard work, and a willingness to keep learning, greatness is within reach for anyone.