June Mar Fajardo reflects on retirement from Gilas Pilipinas after 13 years
June Mar Fajardo has played his last game as a Gilas Pilipinas player
The basketball big man, 36, announced that he was retiring from the international scene after the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers Window 4 game, where the Philippines won against Iran 68-56 on Aug. 30.
Fajardo took to Instagram on Aug. 31 to bid the team goodbye.
"After many years of wearing our country's colors, the time has come for me to officially retire from the Gilas National Team," he wrote.
"Representing my country has been one of the honors of my life," he continued, adding that he played for not just himself, but for his family, teammates, and supporters.
The 6-foot-11 player then thanked his teammates, coaches, staff, and others who were part of his journey.
"Thank you for the battles we fought together, the sacrifices nobody saw, the lessons, the laughter, and the memories I'll carry with me for the rest of my life. To the fans, thank you for standing behind us and giving me the privilege of representing you. Your support made every sacrifice worth it."
Despite hanging up his Gilas jersey, Fajardo said everything it represents will "always be part" of his identity.
The Cebu native, a nine-time PBA MVP, made sure to walk off the court with a bang, as he scored six points and two rebounds in over seven minutes of play.
Fajardo, known for his nickname "The Kraken," was picked to be part of Gilas in 2013.
The team currently consists of Kai Sotto, Dwight Ramos, Juan Gómez de Liaño, Chris Newsome, Kevin Quiambao, and A.J. Edu.
Fajardo has also played for the San Miguel Beermen and Petron Blaze Boosters in the PBA.
