MANILA — Nine-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo acknowledged the huge task of holding the fort for Gilas Pilipinas as Quentin Millora-Brown and Kai Sotto are reportedly out for the upcoming window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
In a report by SPIN.ph, Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone revealed that the two big men are ruled out in their forthcoming games, facing New Zealand on February 26 and Australia on March 1.
"Siyempre paghahandaan natin nang husto 'yung magiging game natin sa darating na [FIBA] window," Fajardo expressed. "Magiging mahirap sa 'tin 'yon, hindi magiging madali na task 'yon, pero willing naman tayo gawin 'yung best natin para makuha natin 'yung panalo."
In a previous interview at the Ynares Center Montalban, Fajardo called the two giants "the future."
READ: June Mar Fajardo calls Kai Sotto, QMB the future, says Gilas career nearing the end
"Mabigat, mabigat na kalaban. Alam naman natin lahat 'yan, na hindi madaling kalaban 'yung [Australia at New Zealand]. Pero andun naman tayo, paghahandaan natin nang husto 'yan. 'Yung practices natin, seseryosohin natin."
Fajardo said he's doing his best to get all the rest he needs to be physically fit against these heavyweights. He is also banking on the Filipino fans' crowd support, which will expectedly boost the hometown heroes.
"Nakapahinga naman ako, tina-try ko 'yung best na magpahinga. Tulog nang marami. 'Yan nga, balik sa practice, gagawin ko 'yung best ko maging sharp pagdating [ng FIBA window]," said Fajardo.
READ: After 2nd Athlete of the Year nod, Carlos Yulo hopes more Pinoys excel on world stage
"Kumpiyansa tayo, kumpiyansa tayo, kasi nasa homecourt tayo. Hindi lang naman kami; andun din naman 'yung mga fans, kababayan natin, sila 'yung magbu-boost, magbibigay ng lakas sa 'tin, extra boost ng confidence sa 'tin."
Fajardo received the Mr. Basketball citation at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Annual Awards night on Monday at the Diamond Hotel in Manila.