June Mar Fajardo ends Gilas Pilipinas career with a win over Iran

Thousands of fans at the Mall of Asia Arena rose to their feet, chanting 'MVP, MVP' as June Mar Fajardo walked off the court for the last time in a Gilas Pilipinas jersey. It was an emotional moment for one of the greatest pillars of Philippine basketball. In the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers, Gilas staged a remarkable comeback against Iran, winning 68-56, and more importantly, it was a sweet farewell for Fajardo from the national team. After the game, the 34-year-old center confirmed it was his last appearance for Gilas. 'Last ko na ito. Ginawa ko na nga ‘yung buong magagawa ko,' Fajardo told reporters. Those simple words carried years of dedication. From the young Cebuano who first joined the team in 2026 under coach Chot Reyes, to becoming the 'kuya' guiding the new generation like Kai Sotto, Fajardo has walked a long journey full of glory. In his final game, Fajardo was not just a symbol. He scored 6 points and grabbed 2 rebounds in 7 minutes, helping Gilas overcome an early 18-5 deficit. His presence in the second quarter provided a tactical and emotional anchor, allowing the hosts to turn the tide. This was Gilas's second consecutive win in the fourth window, solidifying the Philippines' standing in Asian basketball. Looking back at Fajardo's Gilas career, he is one of the purest centers Southeast Asia has ever produced. At 2.08m, with immense strength and polished post moves, he has won 9 PBA MVP awards – an unprecedented record. But his legacy goes beyond statistics. He was the bridge between two generations: from the young Gilas that suffered heavy defeats to the powerhouse that could beat Iran on home soil. Under coach Chot Reyes, Gilas's tactics evolved over the years, but Fajardo remained the rock in the paint. In an era that values stretch fives and mobile bigs, Fajardo held his ground through basketball IQ and rebounding instincts. He didn't need to shoot threes; he just needed to be in the right position, set screens, and own the space under the basket. Fajardo's departure leaves a huge void. Kai Sotto, expected to be his successor, played impressively with smart moves and fighting spirit. But replacing a legend like Fajardo is not an overnight task. Gilas must rebuild their system, relying not on a single center but on collective execution. The win over Iran also showed the growth of young players. Juan Gomez de Liaño and others stepped up when the team struggled. But it was Fajardo's experience and calmness that kept the team together during tense moments – an intangible value no statistic can measure. For Filipino fans, that night was a symphony of emotions. They celebrated the victory yet mourned the farewell of a legend. But as Fajardo said, he did everything he could. He left in glory, with a win, with the respect of opponents, and with the boundless love of fans. Philippine basketball will no longer have June Mar Fajardo on the court, but his legacy will live on in every pass, every shot, and in the hearts of young dreamers who aspire to wear the Gilas jersey. That is how a true legend departs: not loudly, not ostentatiously, but leaving an indelible mark.