June Mar Fajado ready to step up for Gilas in the absence of key players in crucial FIBA Asian Qualifiers window

The second window of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers is upon us, and Gilas Pilipinas is looking to build on a strong opening stretch as it continues its bid for a spot in the main draw of the global showpiece.

The Philippines got off to a perfect start in Group A during the first window, sweeping its assignments to remain unbeaten. However, sterner tests await as Gilas prepares to face regional heavyweights in the upcoming set of fixtures — this time against Oceania powers Australia national basketball team and New Zealand national basketball team.

Complicating matters for the national squad is the absence of key frontcourt pieces. Young big men Kai Sotto and Quentin Millora-Brown have both confirmed their non-availability for the two home games, leaving a significant void in size, rim protection, and interior scoring.

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With two primary centers sidelined, the responsibility now shifts squarely onto the shoulders of Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) cornerstone June Mar Fajardo. The multi-time PBA Most Valuable Player enters the window riding high after leading the San Miguel Beermen to the Philippine Cup title, once again reinforcing his status as one of the league’s most dominant forces.

Fajardo acknowledged that the absence of Sotto and Millora-Brown presents a major challenge, particularly against taller and more physical opponents such as Australia and New Zealand, both known for their depth and size across all positions. Still, the veteran center emphasized preparation and collective effort as Gilas’ path forward.

“Of course, we are preparing for our game in the upcoming window. For sure, it won’t be easy for us. It’s going to be tough. No easy games against them. But what we can do is to play our best to win,” Mar Fajardo said in a media interaction.

June Mar Fajardo during his arrival at the PSA Awards Night as Mr. Basketball. | @jonasterradoINQ pic.twitter.com/djk7VxjEzm

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The Philippines’ 2-0 record in the first window came at the expense of Guam, but the upcoming assignments represent a significant step up in competition. Australia, a consistent force in FIBA competitions and an Olympic-level program, brings a blend of NBA and high-level professional talent. New Zealand, meanwhile, has long been a disciplined and physical side capable of punishing lapses on both ends of the floor.

“They are tough opponents. We know how strong they are and it won’t be easy playing them. But we are here, so we have to prepare and do all the necessary action plans and practices. We have to take this seriously and do what we need to do,” he added.

Head coach Tim Cone will be tasked with recalibrating the rotation, particularly in the frontcourt, as Gilas seeks to compensate for its missing size. Expect adjustments in defensive schemes, quicker rotations, and perhaps a more perimeter-oriented attack to offset any mismatches inside.

One significant advantage for Gilas is homecourt support. Both games will be staged at the Mall of Asia Arena, where the national team traditionally draws passionate crowds. The energy of the Filipino faithful has often served as a sixth man, especially in high-stakes international fixtures.

“We are confident we can win because we are in our homecourt. Our fans and kababayans will be there to give us extra boost for sure,” he continued.

Beyond tactical adjustments, Fajardo’s personal condition will be closely monitored. The 6-foot-10 center battled shoulder and knee concerns during San Miguel’s championship run, raising questions about workload management heading into a physically demanding international window.

“I’m trying to get as much rest as I can. It’s back to training for me and I’m trying to stay sharp. It’s okay now. I’m doing some therapy and it’s okay,” Mar Fajardo concluded.

Gilas opens the second window against New Zealand on Thursday, February 28, before facing Australia on Sunday, March 1 — two marquee matchups that could shape the trajectory of its qualification campaign. With key absences, heightened competition, and national pride at stake, the Philippines will need resilience, execution, and leadership — particularly from Fajardo — to protect its unbeaten record and strengthen its push toward the 2027 FIBA World Cup.

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