I still remember walking into the Smart-Araneta Coliseum on that humid Sunday evening of July 6, 2018. The air was electric with anticipation as fans filled the arena by 7:30 p.m., all waiting to witness history in the making. That night wasn't just another championship game—it was the culmination of a season dominated by one exceptional athlete who would ultimately claim the 2018 PBA MVP award. June Mar Fajardo didn't just win the MVP that year; he redefined what dominance looks like in Philippine basketball.
Looking back at that season, what impressed me most was how Fajardo transformed from being merely excellent to becoming virtually unstoppable. His statistics were nothing short of phenomenal—he averaged around 22.3 points per game while pulling down approximately 14.2 rebounds. Those numbers alone would have made him MVP material, but what truly set him apart was his efficiency. Shooting at about 58% from the field while maintaining nearly 75% from the free-throw line showcased his incredible versatility for a big man. I've followed the PBA for over fifteen years, and I can confidently say I've never seen a center with such polished offensive skills combined with defensive presence.
The beauty of Fajardo's game that season was his ability to impact winning beyond the stat sheet. Watching him command double and sometimes triple teams created opportunities for his San Miguel teammates that simply didn't exist when he was on the bench. His basketball IQ was off the charts—he knew exactly when to attack the basket and when to kick out to open shooters. I particularly recall one game against Ginebra where he recorded what I believe was his season-high of 18 rebounds while dishing out 5 assists, demonstrating his evolving playmaking abilities. His dominance in the paint was so complete that opposing coaches had to completely redesign their defensive schemes just to contain him.
What many casual observers might not appreciate is how Fajardo's conditioning that season elevated his game to another level. He played approximately 38 minutes per game despite his massive frame, showing incredible stamina for a player of his size. His footwork in the post became textbook material—I often find myself rewatching clips of his drop steps and hook shots to show young players how it's done. The way he established position was like watching an artist at work, using his body not just with brute force but with intelligent angles and timing.
That MVP season represented more than just individual brilliance—it symbolized Fajardo's mastery of both physical and mental aspects of the game. His leadership on court was palpable, especially during crucial moments where he would demand the ball and deliver. The ceremony at Smart-Araneta Coliseum felt like a coronation of someone who had not only dominated statistically but had elevated everyone around him. Reflecting on that year, I believe we witnessed one of the most complete individual seasons in PBA history, setting a standard that future MVPs will be measured against. Fajardo didn't just win games—he influenced how the center position is played in the Philippines, blending traditional post dominance with modern basketball skills in a way I haven't seen replicated since.
