PBA Controversy: Ginebra legend REAL TALK against Junemar Fajardo?

Alright, let’s break down Jayjay Helterbrand’s comment about June Mar Fajardo’s eight MVPs and whether it would have been possible if he’d played in the era of Ali Peek, Eric Menk, and Danny Seigle. First off, we shouldn’t give Helterbrand’s take too much weight because, by his own admission, he hasn’t been watching the PBA regularly in recent years. So, is this an informed opinion or just a bit of nostalgia? I’m leaning toward the latter.

Helterbrand’s argument hinges on the idea that the competition from big men in the 2000s would’ve kept Fajardo from dominating the way he has. But here’s the thing: the size argument doesn’t hold up. Peek, Menk, and Seigle weren’t giants. In fact, none of them were even 6’6” or taller, while Fajardo has spent his prime battling with bigger guys like Japeth Aguilar, Ian Sangalang, Christian Standhardinger, Greg Slaughter, and Kelly Williams, all of whom are 6’7” and above. Fajardo has dominated in an era of larger and more athletic big men, and that’s a key factor Helterbrand seems to overlook.

Let’s also consider what Asi Taulava—a guy who played in both eras—said back in 2014. He already predicted Fajardo would dominate for years and win multiple MVPs, even calling him the PBA GOAT at one point. Asi was on the court during both the Menk-Peek era and Fajardo’s rise, so if he’s saying that, it should carry some weight.

Here’s the thing: I don’t think Helterbrand has really dug deep into this opinion. It feels more like he’s speaking out of pride or loyalty to his era. And look, we get it. Players from every generation think their era was tougher. But if we really analyze the competition, size, and dominance factor, Fajardo would’ve done just fine in the 2000s—maybe not eight MVPs, but certainly more than two or three.

Ultimately, Fajardo’s dominance transcends eras. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ would’ve made him a force regardless of the competition. So, while Jayjay might be holding onto the past a little too tightly, Fajardo’s greatness speaks for itself.