June Mar Fajardo has cemented his greatness and legacy after being name to the PBA 50 Greatest list.
The inclusion of June Mar Fajardo in the PBA 50 Greatest Players did not come as a surprise for San Miguel coach Leo Austria.
Austria described the 6-foot-10 Cebuano as a once-a-generation talent.
“I’m not surprised when his name before was mentioned to be included in the 50 Greatest Players. He is a one-of-a-kind player you may not witness again in the next several years,” Austria told One Sports via text message.
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Under Austria’s tutelage, Fajardo has dramatically risen to superstar status, winning eight Most Valuable Player awards.
Together, they captured nine PBA championships.
After losing the Rookie of the Year award to Calvin Abueva, Fajardo, the No. 1 pick overall in the 2012 Draft, went on to cop four Finals Most Valuable Player trophies, 11 Best Player of the Conference plums and a Defensive Player of the Year recognition, among others.
San Miguel coach Leo Austria | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
Aside from the Cebuano's talent, Austria went on to identify the other things that has made Fajardo a cut above the rest for 13 years now.
“[His] attitude, work ethic, humility, dedication and passion to the game is incomparable,” Austria said.
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Austria could not help but be proud of his prized big man. But they are not done making history together.
“I’m so happy and proud of him. I’m so lucky to be a part of his journey to become one of the greatest players in the PBA,” Austria said.