Fajardo snares record 3rd straight MVP; Newsome is top rookie

June Mar Fajardo’s dominance has reached a new level of importance.

The San Miguel center on Friday captured his third straight MVP award, making him the first player in PBA history to have won the plum in three consecutive seasons.

Fajardo, who also took home the Samboy Lim Sportsmanship award, tied Bogs Adornado for second most MVPs behind Alvin Patrimonio and Mon Fernandez.

Fajardo averaged 19.73 points, his most in his career, 12.21 rebounds, and 1.38 blocks in the 2015-2016 season.

He also made it to the Mythical Five along with MVP frontrunners Alaska’s Calvin Abueva and TNT’s Jayson Castro, teammate Arwind Santos and Globalport’s Terrence Romeo.

San Miguel’s Alex Cabagnot, Ginebra’s LA Tenorio and Japeth Aguilar, NLEX’s Asi Taulava and Sean Anthony, meanwhile, occupied the Second Mythical Team spots.

Meralco’s rising star Chris Newsome bagged the Rookie of the Year award, edging top two picks Troy Rosario and Moala Tautuaa.

Star’s Marc Pingris, Aguilar, Rain or Shine’s Gabe Norwood, Alaska’s Ping Exciminiano and San Miguel’s Chris Ross were all named to the All-Defensive team.

Rain or Shine’s Jericho Cruz was recognized as the Most Improved Player of the season.