Eight-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo will always be in the conversation when it comes to statistics. And yet there were a few breakouts after the PBA Season 49 Governors' Cup elimination round.
The PBA Governors' Cup elimination round has come to a close, with several players leaving their mark on the conference. Here are the top performers in key statistical categories:
On the mark: Arvin Tolentino (Northport Batang Pier)
- Elimination average: 23.7 PPG | 59/100 2-PT FG | 16/46 3-PT FG | 3/15 4-PT FG
- Next in line: June Mar Fajardo (San Miguel): 21.3 PPG | CJ Perez (San Miguel): 20.5 PPG
Arvin Tolentino showcased his scoring prowess, averaging an 23.7 points per game in 10 contests. His efficiency was evident in his 48.4% field goal percentage, including a remarkable 59% from two-point range. Tolentino's ability to knock down three-pointers and even four-point shots made him a formidable offensive threat.
Setting a career-high of 51 points probably helped. Unfortunately, the Northport Batang Pier's campaign ended prematurely, missing out on the playoffs.
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Board Man: June Mar Fajardo (San Miguel Beermen)
- Elimination average: 15.0 RPG
- Next in line: Christian Standhardinger (Terrafirma): 8.67 RPG | Arvin Tolentino (NorthPort): 8.3 RPG
June Mar Fajardo, the perennial MVP contender, once again dominated the boards.
Grabbing 15 rebounds per game, Fajardo's dominance on the glass played a crucial role in San Miguel's playoff berth. Despite facing import challenges, the Beermen remain a force to be reckoned with, and the Kraken's continued excellence puts him in prime position to claim his 11th Best Player of the Conference award.
[ALSO READ: PBA: June Mar Fajardo, George King lead in Governors’ Cup BPC, Best Import race]
Prime dimes: Robert Bolick (NLEX Road Warriors)
- Elimination average: 8.6 APG
- Next in line: Mark Barroca (Magnolia): 6.2 APG | Scottie Thompson (Ginebra): 5.9 APG
Robert Bolick showcased his playmaking skills, dishing out an average of 8.6 assists per game. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates contributed significantly to NLEX's success, as the Road Warriors go toe-to-toe with sister team TNT Tropang Giga in the quarterfinals.
Man of steals: Joshua Munzon (Northport Batang Pier)
- Elimination average: 2.8 SPG | 28 total steals
- Next in line: RR Pogoy (TNT): 2.13 SPG | Kelly Williams (TNT): 1.75 SPG
Joshua Munzon's defensive tenacity was on full display, as he averaged 2.8 steals per game. His ability to disrupt opposing teams' offenses proved invaluable for Northport, although they ultimately fell short of making the playoffs.
He seems to like swiping, having a career-high of six steals back in the Season 48 Philippine Cup.
Shot swatter: Zavier Lucero (Magnolia Hotshots)
- Elimination average: 1.3 BPG | 13 total blocks
- Next in line: Brandon Bates (Meralco): 1.1 BPG | Keith Datu (Rain or Shine): 1.0 BPG
Zavier Lucero's shot-blocking prowess helped anchor Magnolia's defense.
Registering 1.3 blocks per game, Lucero's rim protection played a vital role in the Hotshots' playoff campaign, as they tussle with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the quarterfinals.