June Mar Fajardo ends Gilas Pilipinas career with victory over Iran

June Mar Fajardo ended his Gilas Pilipinas career on a high note with a thrilling comeback victory over Iran in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Sunday. The 34-year-old Cebuano giant played his final game at the Mall of Asia Arena, where the sellout crowd chanted 'MVP' as he helped the hosts overcome an early 18-5 deficit to win 68-56. Fajardo confirmed after the game: 'This is my last. I did everything I could.' He scored 6 points and grabbed 2 rebounds in 7 minutes, capping a decade-long national team career that included a runner-up finish in the 2026 FIBA Asia Cup and mentoring young stars like Kai Sotto. Known for his humility and dedication, Fajardo leaves a lasting legacy as one of the greatest Filipino basketball players. His departure marks the end of an era, but the future of Gilas looks bright with emerging talents like Sotto and Juan Gómez de Liaño, who also shined in the win.