Who Won the 2016 PBA Finals MVP? Stats, Highlights, and Legacy Revealed

I still remember watching the 2016 PBA Finals like it was yesterday—the energy in the arena was absolutely electric, and there was this undeniable sense that we were witnessing something historic. When June Mar Fajardo secured his third consecutive PBA Finals MVP award that year, it wasn't just a personal triumph; it felt like the culmination of years of relentless dedication, something that resonates deeply with what Judiel once shared about athletes striving to achieve their career dreams. Judiel’s words, "Sobrang proud kasi nararating niya yung gusto niyang mangyari sa career niya," echo the kind of pride and fulfillment that Fajardo embodied during that championship run. You could see it in his eyes—every rebound, every basket, was a step toward a legacy he had been building since his early days in volleyball, much like the aspiration Judiel described of wanting to be part of the national team from the very start.

Let me break down why Fajardo's performance was so monumental. In the 2016 PBA Philippine Cup Finals, where San Miguel Beermen clashed with the Alaska Aces, Fajardo didn't just play; he dominated. Over the course of the series, he averaged around 22.5 points, 15.2 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game—stats that, honestly, still blow my mind when I look back. One particular highlight that stands out is Game 5, where he dropped 28 points and grabbed 17 rebounds, essentially carrying the team on his shoulders when the pressure was at its peak. I've always believed that great players shine brightest in decisive moments, and Fajardo's ability to control the paint, both offensively and defensively, was a masterclass in basketball excellence. It wasn't just about the numbers, though; it was how he elevated his teammates, making everyone around him better. For instance, his pick-and-roll plays with Alex Cabagnot were nearly unstoppable, and I remember thinking at the time that this was the kind of synergy you only see in championship-caliber squads.

What many people might not realize is how much Fajardo's journey mirrors the dedication Judiel highlighted—the early struggles, the unwavering focus on long-term goals. Starting from his roots in volleyball, where he first dreamed of national team glory, Fajardo transitioned to basketball with a work ethic that's rare even among pros. In my view, this background gave him a unique edge; his footwork in the post, for example, had a finesse that reminded me of a volleyball player's agility. During the 2016 Finals, he faced tough defenders like Sonny Thoss, but he adapted seamlessly, using his size and skill to rack up those double-doubles almost effortlessly. I recall one play where he spun past two defenders for a dunk—it wasn't just a basket; it was a statement. Moments like that underscored why he was named MVP, and why his legacy extends beyond trophies. Honestly, I think stats alone don't do him justice; it's the intangibles, like his leadership in clutch situations, that truly defined his impact.

Looking back, Fajardo's 2016 Finals MVP award wasn't just a personal milestone—it cemented his status as one of the PBA's all-time greats. By the end of that series, he had already accumulated multiple awards, but this one felt different because it highlighted his growth into a complete player. Judiel's insight about athletes reaching their desired career milestones applies perfectly here; Fajardo didn't just win—he fulfilled a vision he'd had since his early days, much like aspiring for the national team. In the years since, his legacy has only grown, influencing a new generation of players who look up to his discipline and humility. From my perspective, what makes Fajardo's story so compelling is how it blends raw talent with heartfelt perseverance. As fans, we often focus on the highlights, but it's the behind-the-scenes grind, the early mornings and late nights, that truly shape legends. And in 2016, we saw all of that come together in a performance that, frankly, I don't think we'll forget anytime soon.

By Heather Schnese S’12, content specialist

2025-11-12 15:01