Fajardo returns as SMB evens PBA semifinals series

June Mar Fajardo returned to the starting lineup for San Miguel Beer in Game 4 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals, helping the Beermen even the series at 2-2 with a 107-82 victory over Barangay Ginebra.

Fajardo had been coming off the bench in the previous two games due to a calf injury but is now nearing 100% recovery.

In his first start since Game 1, Fajardo recorded a double-double with 12 points, 19 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals, playing nearly 32 minutes.

Coach Leo Austria stated that while Fajardo is physically recovering, he is still building psychological confidence, which this game should help with.

San Miguel rallied in the third quarter after trailing at halftime, outscoring Ginebra 30-12 to secure the dominant win.

Fajardo emphasized the importance of the win to avoid a 3-1 deficit and mentioned the coach's reminder to raise intensity.