San Miguel's new perfect pair will be tested vs. Ginebra in the semifinals.
San Miguel Beermen coach Jorge Gallent couldn’t help but marvel at the frontcourt tandem of June Mar Fajardo and Bennie Boatwright.
Gallent shared what most fans observe as far as their dynamics is concerned, saying Boatwright, their third import this conference, and the seven-time PBA MVP complement each other very well.
“He gives us space. The defense cannot collapse on him. Bennie is a good passer so he looks at his open teammates,” Gallent said of the USC alum.
“He’s a good complement to June Mar,” he added.
Fajardo already likes Bennie, saying after a previous game that Boatwright makes his job easy.
“Mas gumaan ‘yung trabaho ko. Sana laging ganoon para hindi ako masyadong mabugbog,” said June Mar.
The perfect pairing was none more evident in the Beermen’s 127-120 beating of the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinal match on Friday — just their second game together.
Boatwright took charge outside, shooting five three-pointers on the way to 41 points.
On the other hand, the 6-foot-10 Fajardo commanded the shaded are and finished with 13 points, 13 rebounds, five assists, three steals, and a block.
“June Mar is an inside presence and Bennie is outside presence. We’re lucky to have Bennie here that can help June Mar do stuff inside the paint,” Gallent said.
Whether that partnership will continue to prosper remains to be seen, as the Beermen will now face their toughest adversary yet against defending champion Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel in the semifinals.
The best-of-5 semis start on Wednesday, January 24.