June Mar Fajardo’s recovery is on the right track but San Miguel Beer is still waiting for the doctor’s clearance before he can suit up in the Commissioner’s Cup of the Philippine Basketball Association.
Beermen team manager Gee Abanilla said they are not in a rush as they want to make sure that the seven-time Most Valuable Player will be fit to see action in the season-opening conference.
“We’re not on a rush, but the healing process of June Mar is right on target,” Abanilla told DAILY TRIBUNE, referring to the fractured finger that Fajardo suffered.
“We’re just waiting for the doctor’s go signal.”
Abanilla said they are looking at their 12 January game against Blackwater to reinsert Fajardo into their roster. But they will gladly comply if the gentle giant from Cebu requests for extra days of rest.
“We’re looking at 12 January, but it will still depend on the doctor,” Abanilla said.
Fajardo had started working out with the Beermen, which is a good sign.
“But he has yet to join us in full contact drills. We haven’t even tried throwing the ball hard and made June Mar catch the ball,” Abanilla said.
Fajardo last saw action on 29 November during the Beermen’s 115-110 win over Rain or Shine at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
By 12 January, Fajardo will be on his sixth week of his recovery period.
“Initially, the doctor gave us six weeks, which means he can play against Blackwater. All we need now is the clearance,” Abanilla said.
Their last two games will be very crucial as the Beermen are currently tied for fourth to fifth spots with Barangay Ginebra at 6-3, half a game behind third-placer Meralco.
They will return to action on Sunday against Terrafrma before facing Blackwater.
