June Mar Fajardo: The Quest for a 10th PBA MVP

June Mar Fajardo keeps raising the bar in Philippine basketball. As the heart of the San Miguel Beermen, he shows a level of dominance that’s rare in any league. After winning his record-breaking ninth Most Valuable Player award in late 2025, all eyes are now on his quest for a tenth MVP—a milestone that "The Kraken" seems determined to reach.

Fajardo stands out because of his efficiency and strong presence on the court. In the recent Philippine Cup, he often put up more than 16 points and 16 rebounds per game. He leads both the defense and offense, making him the favorite for MVP year after year. Even as younger players try to catch up, Fajardo’s calm and winning experience keep him on top.

Fajardo’s stats are unmatched. He now has 13 Best Player of the Conference awards, including his latest from the 50th season’s All-Filipino conference, which boosts his chances for a 10th MVP. Experts say his durability and better passing help him stay at the top. Even as the league changes, the 6-foot-10 Cebuano center is still a dominant force.

Sustaining the Standard of Excellence

Staying this good into his mid-30s takes more than just height. Fajardo has improved his game by adding a mid-range shot and making smart choices when double-teamed. He also helps his teammates get better chances to score, which is important for MVP voters who look at both stats and team success.

• Rebounding Prowess: He regularly tops the league in total rebounds and second-chance points.

• Defensive Reliability: Fajardo is always on the All-Defensive Team and is known for protecting the rim.

• High Efficiency: He keeps one of the best field goal percentages in the league because he chooses his shots carefully.

Challenges to the Throne

Even with all his talent, getting a 10th MVP won’t be easy. Other skilled big men and high-scoring guards challenge him. More teams now use "small-ball" lineups to pull him away from the basket and test his stamina. The tough PBA Season also means he has to manage injuries carefully.

MVP voting also looks at the story behind the season and team rankings. For Fajardo to win again, the San Miguel Beermen need to stay near the top. Usually, the MVP comes from a top-four team, so the Beermen have to keep winning. If they keep winning titles, it will be hard for voters to pick anyone else.

The Verdict on a Historic Tenth

Fajardo is now competing with his own legacy. By winning his ninth MVP, he passed legends like Ramon Fernandez and Alvin Patrimonio. A tenth MVP would mean ten years at the top. With his current form and the team’s recent Cup win, "The Kraken" is still the player everyone wants to beat.

As long as Fajardo leads San Miguel and controls the rebounds, his 10th MVP is possible. The league is changing, but he’s still the one to beat. The race will get tougher, but it’s hard to bet against the PBA’s most decorated player.

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