PBA: Even if cleared from serious calf issues, June Mar Fajardo's Game 2 status still unclear

June Mar Fajardo remains questionable for Game 2 even if the doctors cleared him to play through a calf injury. PBA Images (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--June Mar Fajardo got a sigh of relief on Thursday as tests showed no sign of a significant calf injury after the previous night's Game 1 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals between San Miguel and Ginebra.

According to the Beermen's team manager Gee Abanilla, the 6-foot-10 giant is cleared for action in Friday's Game 2 even if the doctors "noted tightness in June Mar’s calf muscles."

Fajardo said that he began experiencing pain in his calf as early as the second quarter of Game 1 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, just when SMB mounted its largest lead of the game at 18.

However, as the game continued, he also had to play through the injury, and it eventually slowed him down, as Ginebra completed the comeback to steal the 73-71 win.

Despite being cleared of any major injury, Fajardo's availability for Game 2 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium remains a question.

“His actual participation for tomorrow will all depend on coach Leo Austria’s decision,” said Abanilla.

Calf injuries became a major concern coming from the heels of a sad development in Game 7 of the NBA Finals.

Indiana superstar Tyrese Haliburton played through pain in his calf and seemed to be on track for a stellar performance until the injury aggravated late in the first quarter, which led to an Achilles tendon tear that would likely force him to sit out the entire 2025-2026 season.

If Austria decides to be too cautious and give Fajardo the rest in Game 2, Mo Tautuaa and Rodney Brondial are expected to get extended minutes in controlling the paint for the Beermen.

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