MANILA, Philippines – San Miguel star June Mar Fajardo notched a new milestone as he climbed to No. 5 in the PBA all-time rebound list.
The reigning eight-time MVP hauled down 19 rebounds on top of 21 points and 7 assists in a 106-88 win over Terrafirma in the Commissioner’s Cup on Friday, December 13 to surpass league legend Alvin Patrimonio.
According to PBA chief statistician Fidel Mangonon, Fajardo hiked his career rebounding total to 6,163 as he leapfrogged four-time MVP Patrimonio, who tallied 6,152 boards over his storied 17-season career with the Purefoods franchise.
Making the feat more impressive is the fact that Fajardo is just in his 11th season.
Up next for Fajardo in the list is Asi Taulava, who ended his 24-season career with 6,409 rebounds.
The 6-foot-10 Fajardo has been a beast on the boards this conference as he averages 16 rebounds through four games.
If he keeps his pace and if the Beermen make a deep playoff run, moving past Taulava for the No. 4 spot should be a doable feat for Fajardo before the tournament ends.
San Miguel has eight games left in the elimination round and will play at least nine games in the playoffs if it reaches the finals.
Ahead of the rebounding pack are PBA icons Ramon Fernandez (8,652), Abet Guidaben (8,570), and Jerry Codiñera (7,034). – Rappler.com
