Opportunity To Strike

JMF’s absence could tilt league’s balance

MANILA, Philippines — San Miguel’s challengers – all coveting the Beermen’s PBA Philippine Cup crown – look to pounce on the opportunity to strike against the five-peat rulers perceived to be more vulnerable this time with cornerstone June Mar Fajardo out of the equation.

The 6-foot-10 behemoth, a vital cog in the Beermen’s dominant run, was ruled out of action indefinitely due to “complete fracture on his right tibia,” a development that could tilt the balance of power in the prestigious All-Filipino tournament and possibly beyond.

“That’s tragic for our organization (San Miguel Corp.). He’s the face of our flagship team plus the mainstay of our national team. Truly, truly hate to see that,”  Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone told The STAR yesterday.

“As for the All-Filipino, needless to say, that (Fajardo’s absence) opens up the race,” added Cone, whose Twin Towers Greg Slaughter and Japeth Aguilar loom as a major force in a Fajardo-less hostilities.

Meralco mentor Norman Black knows all too well the huge implication of losing a key big to injury. The Bolts’ big man Raymond Almazan limped out early in their Governors’ Cup title series with the Gin Kings and contributed to their eventual setback.

“It’s sad news about June Mar, and bad news for our national team. He has been very durable over the years but you never know when injuries will hit. We found that out in the finals against Ginebra when Raymond went down with a knee injury,” said Black.

“I’m not sure who will step up and win the MVP, but considering SMB has dominated the All-Filipino, teams will be more focused on breaking their championship run,” he added.

For TNT KaTropa tactician Bong Ravena, San Miguel remains a strong team despite its predicament.

“While injuries are a part of basketball, he is such a big part of the PBA.  I wish he’s healthy and playing as you want to beat each team at their best.  I hope for a quick recovery for him. Without Fajardo, (it) doesn’t mean they’re weak,” said Ravena.

Fajardo usually presents a tough match up for the KaTropa, who have only one legit center in Yousef Taha surrounded by power forwards David Semerad, Jay Washington and Kelly Williams.

“Our mindset is to come out strong and win every single game as much as possible,” said Ravena.

The sidelining of five-time MVP Fajardo left Mo Tautuaa and young center Russel Escoto at the forefront of SMB’s frontline. SMB coach Leo Austria said the rest of the Beermen like Chris Ross, Alex Cabagnot, and Arwind Santos need to step up big time so the team can cover for Fajardo.

“We have to find ways how we can be competitive and win another championship. Everybody realizes we still have a chance especially if we work hard and work together,” Austria said.