June Mar Fajardo's decision to defy doctor's orders and play through calf pain in Game Five of the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals showcased his immense dedication to San Miguel. His 18-point, 15-rebound performance was a testament to his fighting spirit and desire to bring the championship home. While his bravery is commendable, the question remains: was it the right decision?
While the immediate benefit of Fajardo's presence was evident, San Miguel must consider the long-term consequences. With two days of rest before Game Six and the title within reach, rushing his recovery might prove counterproductive. Aggravating his injury could derail not only their current championship run but also Fajardo's future performance.
Let's not forget, Fajardo isn't the young, spry athlete he once was. He's 34 years old, and while his skills remain undeniably valuable, protecting his health becomes even more crucial at this stage of his career. Remember, he's arguably San Miguel's main weapon in their battle for the crown for at least the next two seasons.
Playing injured, no matter how motivated, puts that future at risk. One wrong move, and the consequences could be severe, potentially sidelining him for an extended period or even impacting his mobility long-term. It's a risk San Miguel simply cannot afford to take.
While Fajardo's leadership and experience are priceless, San Miguel needs to prioritize his well-being. They have a deep bench capable of stepping up in his absence, allowing him to recuperate fully and return at his best for the crucial Game Six and beyond.
The championship is important, but not at the cost of a player's long-term health. Protecting Fajardo is not just about winning this series; it's about ensuring he leads San Miguel's charge for years to come. Sometimes, the biggest act of leadership is knowing when to step back and prioritize the long game. Let's hope San Miguel's coaching staff takes that into account for the sake of both the current title run and Fajardo's future on the court.
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