BOCAUE – Following Gilas Pilipinas’ heart-wrenching loss to the Dominican Republic in the opening game of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 at the Philippine Arena, June Mar Fajardo played down his impressive performance.
Despite the Philippines’ 81-87 defeat to the Karl-Anthony Towns-led Los Quisqueyanos, Fajardo emerged as one of the standout performers.
The six-time PBA Most Valuable Player contributed 16 points, making all five of his field goal attempts, while also securing seven rebounds and blocking one shot in 28 minutes of play.
“Sayang. Bawi na lang next game. Sayang. Kaya natin manalo. Kailangan lang kung ano yung pwede kong maitulong sa team gagawin ko so yeah, team effort yun,” said Fajardo after the loss.
“Ako basta kapag nandoon ako sa loob, gagawin ko yung makakaya ko. Hindi naman ako nakikipag one-on-one sa ibang players, gusto ko kung ano lang yung maitutulong ko sa team,” he added.
In a crucial moment after Jordan Clarkson fouled out, Fajardo stepped up by drawing a key foul on Towns and sinking both free throws, bringing Gilas within three points at 78-81 with two minutes and 27 seconds remaining.
Unfortunately, despite Fajardo’s efforts, Gilas couldn’t complete a comeback against the Dominicans.
Despite the setback, Fajardo believes that the tough loss highlights the Philippines’ potential to secure victories in their upcoming matches against Angola and Italy.
“Yun nga, may dalawang games pa tayo. Bounce back na lang tayo sa next game. Salamat sa suporta niyo,” he added.
