THE Philippines’ games against Jordan and Iran in the fourth window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers may be the last time June Mar Fajardo is suiting up for Gilas Pilipinas.
This was after the 36-year-old decorated center said that he will not play in the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya in September.
“This may be my last two games with the national team,” Fajardo said in Filipino.
“I am already getting old, and I don’t want to push my body to its limits. I can already feel some aches in my body, but I still want to play basketball. I am still enjoying playing basketball, and I won’t enjoy that if I am feeling something off with my body,” he added.
Fajardo has been playing for the national team since 2013 and has played a total of 68 international games, highlighted by a silver medal at the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship in Manila.
The 12-time PBA champion led the charge for Team Philippines at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China as the Philippines ruled the Asian Games for the first time since 1962.
Fajardo said he wants to give other players the chance to play for flag and country.
“It’s difficult to play for the national team; the competition is different there (Asian Games), it is very high-level. So the runs and the others, I would give my spot to others. I can see younger players like Justin Araña,” said Fajardo, referring to the 6-foot-7 Araña of Converge who was named 2023 PBA Rookie of the Year.
“The future of the national team is so bright. Guys like Araña have high potential to join and play for the national team,” he added.
Fajardo suffered what seemed to be a career-ending injury six years ago but has recovered and even won the Most Valuable Player award.
“I am just blessed that I can return, because after my tibia snapped, I thought I wouldn’t be able to go back playing basketball,” he said.
“But then I had this second chance; I played in the Asian Games, finished with a gold medal, I am so blessed. Then after that incident, I had the experience in playing in the World Cup,” he added.
Fajardo said he took time pondering whether he would suit up for Gilas Pilipinas in the fourth window of the qualifiers but he just could not say ‘no’ whenever duty for country calls.
“It’s always an honor to play for the national team. I am so blessed to be part of the national team, since it is hard to be part of the roster for the national team. So, every time there’s a window and they need me, it means something to me,” he added.
