“I will forever treasure it”: Ramon Fernandez reacts to PBA naming Finals MVP trophy after him

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has officially renamed its prestigious Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in honor of Ramon Fernandez, the league’s all-time scoring leader and one of the most influential figures in Philippine basketball history. The announcement comes during the PBA’s milestone 50th anniversary season, adding symbolic weight to the tribute.

Fernandez, who was among the pioneers when the league launched in 1975, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition. Now 72 years old, the basketball icon said the gesture is something he will “forever treasure,” reflecting on how the PBA shaped not only his career but also his life.

“To have the PBA Finals MVP trophy bear my name, especially in this 50th year, the golden anniversary of the Philippine Basketball Association, is something I never imagined yet will forever treasure. This is more than a personal recognition. It is a reminder of a lifetime shaped by the league that gave me purpose, pride, and a second family,” Fernandez said in a statement.

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Fernandez continued by sharing a heartfelt reflection on his journey through the PBA and how it molded him beyond the hardwood.

“The PBA was my battlefield, my classroom, and my home. It was where I learned discipline, sacrifice, teamwork, humility, and the meaning of leadership under pressure. Every championship fought for, every finals series endured, every cheer, and every criticism, all of it molded the player and the man I became. I owe so much of who I am today to this league,” he added.

Often hailed as the greatest PBA player of all time, Fernandez was a trailblazer whose impact continues to be felt decades after his retirement. He debuted with the iconic Toyota Comets in the league’s inaugural season and went on to win a record-setting 19 PBA championships, including a rare Grand Slam. His blend of size, skill, and versatility revolutionized the way big men played in Philippine basketball.

The PBA Press Corps has named the Finals Most Valuable Player trophy in honor of Ramon Fernandez @INQUIRERSports

📷 PBA Press Corps pic.twitter.com/rGTuHCCX3h

— Jonas Terrado (@jonasterradoINQ) January 15, 2026

His statistical dominance remains unmatched. Fernandez still holds the all-time PBA records for points (18,996), total rebounds (8,652), defensive rebounds (6,435), blocks (1,853), free throws made (3,848), and minutes played (36,624:30). He also collected four season MVP awards, two scoring titles, and five All-Star selections, with his jersey No. 19 retired by the San Miguel Beermen as a permanent tribute.

The Finals MVP award, which will now bear his name, was introduced in 1996—two years after Fernandez concluded his illustrious 20-season career in 1994. The renaming bridges the historical gap between the modern era of the league and its foundational years, honoring the legacy of one of its earliest superstars.

Fernandez hopes that players who receive the trophy in the years to come will embrace the values he stood for: discipline, resilience, leadership, and love for the game.

“As future Finals MVPs lift this trophy, may they remember that greatness is not only measured by statistics or championships but by character, commitment, and love for the game. If this trophy inspires even one player to play harder, lead better, and honor the league that raised us, then this recognition has found its true purpose.”

He ended his message with a powerful tribute to the league where he built his legacy.

“The PBA gave me a lifetime of memories. To now be forever woven into its history, in this golden season, is an honor I will carry with pride until my last breath,” Fernandez concluded.

The renaming of the Finals MVP trophy not only immortalizes Ramon Fernandez’s contributions but also reinforces the PBA’s commitment to celebrating its rich heritage as it moves into a new era of Philippine basketball.

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