Fajardo, Abueva share PBAPC awards spotlight

San Miguel big man June Mar Fajardo and Alaska forward Calvin Abueva share center stage when the PBA Press Corps pays tribute to the league’s top athletes in its annual Awards Night next week at the Century Park Hotel.

The 6-foot-10 Fajardo has become a formidable force in the paint, making him the logical choice for the Gerry’s Grill-Defensive Player of the Year award.

The former University of Cebu star went on to finish the season with a career-high 17.4 points, 12.9 rebounds and 1.7 blocks.

Fajardo was the force behind San Miguel’s championship conquests in last season’s Philippine Cup and Governors Cup.

His overpowering performance all season long culminated with a second straight MVP trophy.

Abueva, the 2013 Rookie of the Year, was named Mr. Quality Minutes for providing the much-needed spark for Alaska, which finished the 40th season with a pair of runner-up finishes.

Last season, Abueva averaged a career-high 12.8 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists.