June Mar Fajardo, the 33-year-old PBA powerhouse, claimed his record seventh MVP title at the Annual Leo Awards held on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Fajardo's remarkable achievement highlighted the recognition of 19 outstanding players during the prestigious event.
Fajardo's stellar performance earned him a spot on the First Mythical Team, where he was joined by Scottie Thompson, Christian Standhardinger, CJ Perez, and Jamie Malonzo. Notably, Thompson, Standhardinger, and Perez gave a tough competition to the towering 6-foot-10 Fajardo in the race for the season's MVP award.
The Second Mythical Team featured notable players such as Gilas Pilipinas pool members Calvin Oftana, Arvin Tolentino, and Calvin Abueva, alongside Robert Bolick and Mikey Williams, showcasing the depth of talent in the league.
Rookie sensation Justin Arana of Converge clinched the Rookie of the Year honor, triumphing over Blackwater's Ato Ular. Meanwhile, Maverick Ahanmisi, the newly-acquired Barangay Ginebra King, emerged as the season's Most Improved Player, outshining his competitors, including Tolentino.
Fajardo and Standhardinger, the formidable duo, were acknowledged for their defensive prowess, earning spots on the All-Defensive Team alongside Cliff Hodge, Chris Newsome, and Jio Jalalon.
Kevin Alas exhibited exceptional sportsmanship on and off the court, winning the Samboy Lim Sportsmanship Award for the second consecutive year, a testament to his integrity and respect for the game.
The award proceedings were led by PBA chairman Ricky Vargas, Commissioner Ricky Vargas, and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al S. Panlilio, with the presence of esteemed members of the Board of Governors, including Alfrancis Chua (Barangay Ginebra), Atty. Raymond Zorilla (Phoenix), Robert Non (San Miguel), Rene Pardo (Magnolia), Atty. Mamerto Mondragon (Rain or Shine), Atty. Bill Pamintuan (Meralco), Erick Arejola (Northport), Bobby Rosales (Terrafirma), Siliman Sy (Blackwater), Archen Cayabyab (Converge), and Rod Franco (NLEX). The event showcased the outstanding talent and camaraderie within the Philippine basketball community, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming PBA Season 48.