JUSTIN Arana faces a huge challenge in the coming PBA Governors’ Cup playoffs.

Literally and figuratively.

The Converge big man will be up against no less than eighth-time MVP June Mar Fajardo as the FiberXers arrange a best-of-five quarterfinals series against the San Miguel Beermen.

Arana is losing no time to prepare for the match up as the playoffs kicks off starting on Wednesday.

“After nito kailangan ko nang mag-work out kasi hindi talaga biro si Kuya June Mar. Hindi ko siya kaya talagang i-stop,” said the former Rookie of the Year.

“Isa ito sa pinaka-mahirap na playoffs para sa amin.”

Converge set up the duel against San Miguel after winning over Magnolia, 89-82, in the final playdate of the group stage Monday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Arana warmed up for his highly-anticipated frontcourt showdown with the 6-foot-10 Fajardo by going double-double against the Hotshots with 12 points and 12 rebounds.

This will be the third time Arana will be up against Fajardo in the playoffs.

On both occasions, the Beermen got the better of the FiberXers. San Miguel swept Converge in two games of the 2022 Commissioner’s Cup playoffs, and a conference later, the Beermen made short work of the FiberXers in the 2023 Governors’ Cup where they held a twice-to-beat advantage.

Arana is keeping his fingers crossed the FiberXers would be able get over the hump this time, but believes it will take more than just a few to topple Fajardo and the Beermen from the top.

“Siguro need talaga namin mag-play as a team para malimitahan siya (Fajardo),” said the former Arellano star. “Kaya after nito kailangan namin mag-extra work na kaagad.” (RG)