Junmar “the Kraken” Fajardo is the epitome of being humble in the Philippine basketball world. Born November 17, 1989, in Compostela, Cebu, Fajardo’s early life was rooted in modesty and hard work. Growing up in a family of modest means, he discovered his passion for basketball at a young age. Fajardo’s towering height and athletic potential were evident early on. He attended the University of Cebu, where his basketball career began to take shape. Playing for the UC Webmasters in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI), Fajardo quickly became a standout player, earning multiple Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards and leading his team to several championships. His performance in CESAFI caught the attention of scouts and coaches nationwide, setting the stage for his future in professional basketball.
The Kraken Surfaces
Drafted first overall by the Petron Blaze Boosters (now San Miguel Beermen) in 2012, Fajardo quickly impressed. He earned All-Rookie Team and Second Mythical Team honors in his debut season. But his true dominance began in his sophomore year. From 2014 to 2019, Fajardo rewrote the PBA record books, becoming the first player to win six consecutive Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards.
Dominance On the Court
Over the years, Junmar Fajardo evolved into one of the most dominant players in the history of the PBA. His accolades are a testament to his impact on the league:
- Most Valuable Player Awards: Fajardo has won the PBA MVP award six times (2014-2019). It serves and speaks of his consistent excellence and dominance on the court.
- Championship Titles: He has led the San Miguel Beermen to multiple PBA championships, becoming a cornerstone of their success and helping the team establish a dynasty in the league.
- Best Player of the Conference Awards: Fajardo has received numerous Best Player of the Conference (BPC) awards, further cementing his status as the top player in the league during various conference tournaments.
- Mythical Team Selections: He has been a regular fixture in the PBA’s Mythical First Team, highlighting his position as one of the premier players in the league year after year.
- Defensive Player of the Year: Fajardo’s prowess is not limited to offense; he has also been recognized for his defensive skills, earning the Defensive Player of the Year award multiple times.
- Finals MVP: His performances in the PBA Finals have often been spectacular, earning him several MVP awards as he consistently delivers in high-pressure situations.
The International Stage
While Junmar Fajardo’s dominance in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is well-documented, his contributions and achievements on the international level are equally noteworthy. Representing the Philippines in various international tournaments, Fajardo has showcased his skills and played a crucial role in raising the profile of Philippine basketball globally. From dominating the Southeast Asian games to the Fiba World Cup, he has been a vital addition to the Philippine Gilas Team.
Junmar Fajardo’s international achievements highlight his importance to Philippine basketball beyond the PBA. His size, skill set, and experience have made him a cornerstone of the national team for many years. Fajardo’s international career has brought pride to the Philippines and helped elevate the country’s status in the global basketball community.
Conclusion
Junmar Fajardo’s rise to prominence in the PBA is a story of hard work, resilience, and unyielding determination. Fajardo has left an indelible mark on Philippine basketball from his early days in Cebu to becoming a six-time PBA MVP. His legacy grows as he continues to play, inspiring countless fans and future players to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals. Always keep an eye on this guy for your PBA odds today.