June Mar Fajardo proved to be a massive thorn in the side of an upset-seeking Terrafirma squad after putting up an all-around performance on Thursday night.
Usually known for his presence in the paint, the league’s only six-time MVP also helped spread the wealth to his teammates after tallying a new career-high of nine assists. His production surpassed his previous high of seven assists which he notched in a 99-93 victory over Rain or Shine two weeks ago.
With his timely passes, Fajardo led his team to a hard-earned 109-108 overtime victory in a performance that also saw him compile 26 points and 10 rebounds.
According to the Cebuano big man, the depth of San Miguel’s roster helped them overcome the fight put up by their opponents who were hungry to snag their first win of the conference.
(C) PBA Images
“Credit sa Terrafirma, ganda ng gameplan nila pero ‘di lang naman ako ‘yung kailangan nilang i-stop eh,” Fajardo claimed moments after his team formally clinched the top spot in the playoffs.
“Kailangan rin nilang i-stop ‘yung mga teammates ko kasi maganda rin ‘yung gameplan namin, nag-wowork rin ‘yung rotation namin na pinasok ni coach.”
By moving the ball around, the Beermen were able to outmatch the Dyip in the assists department, 26-20.
Veteran gunner Marcio Lassiter was one of Fajardo’s main beneficiaries as he provided a lift with 23 points on four-of-nine shooting from beyond the arc.
CJ Perez had a solid contribution with 20 points, five rebounds, and four steals while Von Pessumal also made his presence felt from long distance after firing three three-pointers for a total of 13 points.
After figuring in a tightly-contested encounter against a resilient Terrafirma side, Fajardo felt relieved that his supporting cast was able to deliver offensively as they averted an upset en route to their sixth straight victory.
“Dino-double ako eh, maganda talaga ‘yung gameplan nila so may na-oopen at may na-oopen talaga, buti na-hihit ‘yung shots namin,” he said.
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The second game of each PBA gameday is live-streamed on SMART Sports.
