Ildefonso sees Fajardo an MVP material in 2 years

MANILA, Philippines – Junemar Fajardo is finally realizing his potential.

Fajardo’s game is growing by the day. 

The 6-10 Cebuano rookie has been on a roll in Petron’s last three games. 

In their final elimination round game that sealed their spot in the quarterfinals, Fajardo pumped in 13 points and nine boards.

Against Brgy. Ginebra in the quarterfinals, the top overall pick exploded for 20 point and eight rebounds. In their following game against a tougher Rain or Shine frontline led by the Extra Rice Inc. Beau Belga and fellow Cebuano  JR Quinahan, the young center battered them with 15 points and 17 boards.

He shot an astounding 19 of 24 in the last three games and attributed his efficient shooting to his teammates particulary Danny Ildefonso, who is serving his personal mentor.

“Tinutulungan kasi ako ng mga teammates ko, sina D.I. [Danny Ildefonso]. “Bino-boost nila ang confidence ko. Tinuturo niya sa akin yung pag-seal,” said Fajardo of the two-time MVP, who always arrive in the games together.

For his part, Ildefonso has high hopes on the Petron Blaze rookie big man.

Asked on what he’s trying to teach the young center, Ildefonso answered, “Malakas kumain,” in jest. 

Then the 36-year old veteran turned serious.

“Wala naman na akong ituturo kay Junemar kasi masipag naman siyang bata eh. Basta tinuturan ko kung saan siya mas magiging epektibo sa loob,” said Ildefonso, who noted that his size advantage as his biggest weapon. 

“Yun talaga ang advantage niya eh ang makuha ang bola sa loob kaya tinuturo ko kung paano mag-seal [ng defender],” Ildefonso added.

The 23-year old rookie also wants to improve his defense to become a complete player.

“Ang mga coaches namin tinuturuan ako mag-depensa pero kanina sobrang lousy ng depensa ko, hopefully makabawi ako next game,” Fajardo referring to Game One where he allowed Beau Belga to get away with seven points, six rebounds and four assists.

With Ildefonso serving as his personal coach, Fajardo’s future is bound to be bright.

“Siguro pag magtuloy-tuloy lang ang ginagawa ni Junemar, matagal na yung dalawang taon, MVP na yan,” Ildefonso said.

“Kayang-kaya niyang lagpasan ang nagawa ko kasi nakikita ko sa attitude ng bata. Nararapat lang na ma-bless ang batang yun kasi masipag at saka mabait,” added Ildefonso, who was the league’s back-to-back MVP in 2000 and 2001.