SBP: June Mar Fajardo still ‘big part’ of Gilas program

By Jan Carlo Anolin

After baring the composition of the 24-man pool for the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifier, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) found it necessary Saturday to explain the absence of big man June Mar Fajardo in the roster.

June Mar Fajardo (Rio Deluvio)

In a statement, SBP president Al Panlilio said Fajardo’s exclusion for now is part of the ‘development plan’ in preparation for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Panlilio said the long haul plan will help build up and expose younger players worthy of wearing the Gilas jersey.

“We all know what we can get from June Mar Fajardo as he has proved himself time and again on the international stage,” Panlilio said. “He has served Gilas for so long and will continue to be part of the program.”

“The wear and tear of chasing a PBA Grand Slam and spending his off days with the San Miguel Beermen playing for Gilas will take a toll on anyone,” Panlilio stressed, adding the 6-foot-10 center deserves an extended break.

Panlilio believes the five-time Season MVP and three-time Finals MVP in the PBA may reach ‘peak form’ come the World Cup.

SBP announced the training pool Friday made up of 11 pro players and 13 amateur standouts. The coach has yet to be named though as of this posting.

Gilas will face Thailand on Feb. 20 and Indonesia on Feb. 23 for the first window.

ASPeaks;

The best Filipino big man will always be part of the #GilasPilipinas program leading up to #FIBAWC2023 ! #SBP #LabanPilipinas #ParaSaBayan pic.twitter.com/GHBb1IuRxs

— SBP (@officialSBPinc) January 11, 2020