I still remember the excitement building up throughout the 2023 PBA season, watching players push their limits in what felt like a renaissance year for Philippine basketball. The MVP race particularly captivated me because it wasn't just about individual brilliance—it reflected how the league's evolving landscape was shaping player performances. Having followed the PBA since its early seasons, I've noticed how certain tournaments bring out the best in local talent, especially during import-laden conferences where Filipino players must elevate their game to complement international reinforcements. This dynamic creates the perfect crucible for MVP candidates to emerge, and 2023 delivered one of the most compelling races in recent memory.
When June Mar Fajardo secured his eighth PBA MVP award in 2023, it felt both historic and inevitable. The 6'10" San Miguel Beermen center put up staggering numbers: 18.2 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game while shooting 55% from the field. What impressed me most wasn't just the statistical dominance but how he adapted his game throughout different conferences. During the Commissioner's Cup, when teams could field imports, Fajardo's numbers actually improved against tougher competition—a testament to his relentless work ethic. I've always believed that true greatness reveals itself when facing elevated competition, much like how the upcoming 2025 Reinforced Conference will test today's stars. Watching Fajardo dominate despite constant double-teams reminded me why he's in a class of his own—the man simply has no weaknesses in his offensive arsenal.
The runner-up position sparked more debate than the winner, with Scottie Thompson finishing second in the voting despite missing significant time due to injuries. His 14.5 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.1 assists don't fully capture his impact—when Thompson played, Ginebra's winning percentage was nearly 80%. I've always been partial to versatile guards who impact every facet of the game, and Thompson represents that prototype. His defensive intensity, particularly his ability to switch onto bigger players during import conferences, sets him apart. Christian Standhardinger claimed third place with what I consider the most efficient season of any local player—19.1 points on 58% shooting with 9.4 rebounds. His transformation into Ginebra's primary offensive weapon was remarkable to witness, especially his improved passing out of double teams.
What fascinates me about MVP races in import-laden conferences is how they reveal which local players can thrive alongside international talent. The league's structure creates this unique dynamic where Filipino stars must adjust their roles—some become secondary scorers, others focus on defense, and the truly special ones maintain their dominance regardless of who shares the court. This context makes Fajardo's achievement even more impressive because he didn't just coexist with imports—he outplayed many of them. I recall watching him battle against NorthPort's stellar import during the Commissioner's Cup and thinking how few local big men could match that level of physicality while maintaining offensive efficiency.
The statistical breakdown reveals why the voting wasn't particularly close. Fajardo led in Player Efficiency Rating at 32.8, followed by Standhardinger at 29.4 and Thompson at 27.9. But beyond numbers, what sealed the deal was Fajardo's leadership in crucial moments—his team won the Philippine Cup championship, and he delivered multiple 30-point games against elite competition. Having witnessed all eight of his MVP seasons, I can confidently say this was among his most complete campaigns. The way he expanded his range to occasionally hit mid-range jumpers added another dimension to his game that defenders simply couldn't account for.
Looking ahead to future seasons, particularly tournaments like the 2025 Reinforced Conference that the league recently announced, I'm curious to see if younger players can challenge Fajardo's throne. The PBA's cyclical nature means we're likely approaching a transitional period where new stars must emerge. What makes Fajardo special isn't just his skill set but his consistency—through rule changes, format adjustments, and evolving playing styles, he remains the gold standard. As the league prepares for another import-heavy conference in 2025, I'm watching players like Jamie Malonzo and Calvin Oftana develop, wondering if they possess the versatility to eventually mount serious MVP campaigns during these challenging tournaments.
Reflecting on the 2023 season, what stands out isn't just Fajardo's individual excellence but how his game represents the ideal blend of traditional post play and modern basketball requirements. In an era where big men are expected to space the floor and defend multiple positions, he's managed to dominate with old-school moves while gradually incorporating contemporary elements. This adaptability becomes crucial during reinforced conferences where the game's pace accelerates and physicality intensifies. The 2023 MVP race ultimately rewarded mastery over momentary brilliance, consistency over flashy highlights—and in doing so, reminded us why Fajardo remains the measuring stick for Philippine basketball excellence.