June Mar Fajardo cleared to play in Game 2 after suffering a calf strain in San Miguel’s PBA Game 1 loss

The San Miguel Beermen suffered a heartbreaking 73–71 defeat to long-time rivals Barangay Ginebra San Miguel after taking an 18-point lead in Game 1 of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup semifinals on Wednesday, June 25, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

San Miguel suffered a major blow during the game as their star player and record eight-time PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), June Mar Fajardo, was seen grimacing and limping for nearly the entire second half after suffering a right calf injury. The 35-year-old confirmed to the media after the game that he would have his calf examined by doctors in the hope that it is nothing serious.

The Beermen management recently received good news after it emerged that their star player has been given the green light to suit up for Game 2. San Miguel team manager Gee Abanilla confirmed to the media on Thursday, June 26, that Mar Fajardo underwent an ultrasound to determine the extent of his injury.

ABAI IS CLEARED 🙏🏽

San Miguel Beermen team manager Gee Abanilla says June Mar Fajardo has been cleared to play despite calf tightness, but his status remains a game-time decision pending Coach Leo Austria’s call.#PBASeason49 #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/kHj9qnQEpM

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) June 26, 2025

“The doctors have noted tightness in June Mar’s calf muscles. But he is cleared to play, and his actual participation for Game 2 will depend on Coach Leo Austria’s discretion,” Abanilla said.

Despite the injury, Fajardo showed grit and determination, logging 33 minutes on the court. However, his struggles were evident, as he managed only six points on 30 percent shooting from the field—though he still tallied an impressive 19 rebounds.

The Beermen’s loss was Barangay Ginebra’s gain, with Coach Tim Cone admitting that they noticed Mar Fajardo’s discomfort and capitalized on it.

With Mar Fajardo cleared to play, it will depend on whether Austria will take the chance to put his major weapon on the court, as he needs him fully fit and firing to level the semifinal series in Game 2, scheduled for Friday, June 27, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

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