Beyond the Paint: The personal battles and triumphs of June Mar Fajardo

From Humble Roots to PBA Legend 

Born on November 17, 1989, in Compostela, Cebu, June Mar Sotto Fajardo grew up in the humble town of Pinamungajan where life was far from easy. His family shared a single-room home, and money was always tight. His parents—Bonifacio and Marites—made countless sacrifices to support his basketball dream. His father even quit his job at a furniture shop just to help June Mar prepare for a critical college basketball tryout at the University of Cebu.

This grit and sacrifice paid off when he was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2012 PBA draft by Petron Blaze Boosters (later San Miguel Beermen). From that point forward, the quiet big man from Cebu began carving one of the most remarkable legacies in Philippine basketball history.

Wrapping Records Around Concrete Feats 

June Mar Fajardo is often referred to as “The Kraken” — not just for his imposing 6′11″ frame and soft hands in the paint, but for the chaos he causes to opponents inside the lane. Since entering the league, he has rewritten the record books.

He holds a record-breaking eight PBA MVP titles, with an unprecedented streak of six consecutive MVPs from 2014 to 2019. He added two more MVPs in 2023 and 2024, a feat that has cemented his place as the greatest PBA player of his generation. Along the way, he has collected 11 Best Player of the Conference awards, multiple All-Defensive Team selections, and Finals MVP trophies.

Statistically, his dominance is reflected in his consistent averages of over 17 points and 12 rebounds per game. In 2025, he became the PBA’s all-time leader in offensive rebounds, surpassing the legendary Jerry Codinera. Even more impressive is the fact that he reached this milestone in significantly fewer games—showcasing both his efficiency and longevity.

Trials, Tribute, and Transformation 

While Fajardo’s rise may seem like the stuff of legend, his journey has not been without setbacks. In early 2020, he suffered a fractured tibia, a devastating injury that took him out of the season and cast doubt on his ability to return to form. For a player of his stature, both physically and symbolically, the rehabilitation was arduous—marked by pain, immobility, and doubt. He spent over six months off his feet, relying on a scooter just to move around.

Adding to this emotional burden, Fajardo lost his beloved mother, Marites Fajardo, in 2021. Her passing devastated him. She was more than a mother; she was his moral compass and fiercest supporter. Even after championship wins, he would return home to Cebu just to sit by her grave and share moments, conversations, and stories. Her memory fuels his humility and resilience, and he continues to live by her teachings—stay grounded, avoid conflict, and always respect others.

The eight-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo thanks a few important people after receiving his new hardware after Season 48. | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/gvrlhyTKKn

— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) August 18, 2024

A Gentle Giant Guided by Integrity

What sets June Mar Fajardo apart isn’t just his resume, but his character. Soft-spoken and famously humble, he’s the opposite of the stereotypical superstar. Teammates often describe him as the first to laugh, the last to argue, and the one who always credits others for his success. He has remained scandal-free throughout his career, a rare achievement for a figure of his magnitude.

He also famously kept his cool during the infamous 2018 Gilas-Australia brawl. While chaos unfolded, Fajardo chose not to fight—standing between angry teammates and opposing players, trying to calm the storm. In later interviews, he credited his mom for teaching him the value of restraint and discipline in emotionally charged moments.

Legacy Beyond Leadership

June Mar Fajardo’s basketball achievements make him a living legend: more than 10 PBA championships, MVP honors year after year, countless highlight reels, and a record for offensive rebounds that may stand for decades. But his impact runs deeper.

For fans, he’s the embodiment of perseverance and gratitude. For teammates, he’s the quiet cornerstone. For the country, he’s a source of pride. Whether it’s dominating in the post or offering water to a teammate, June Mar does everything with the same consistency and heart.

Final Word: June Mar Fajardo — Heart of a Champion

June Mar Fajardo is not just a basketball phenomenon—he is a cultural icon, a role model, and a testament to the Filipino spirit. His rise from poverty in Cebu to PBA greatness is as much about character as it is about talent. He plays for more than just titles; he plays for his family, for his late mother, and for every fan who sees themselves in his journey.

And as long as he’s on the court—winning battles under the rim, smiling through interviews, and honoring his roots—June Mar Fajardo will continue to inspire the next generation of dreamers.

He’s not just playing the game. He’s redefining what greatness truly means.

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