Fajardo loses in PBA debut

PBA top pick Jun Mar Fajardo of the University of Cebu lost in his pro league debut with Petron, 102-86, against a gutsy Rain or Shine in the PBA Philippine Cup last night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Fajardo scored on his first attempt JR Quiñahan but that was just one of the few bright spots for Petron. The 6’10” Cebuano finished with nine points and 13 rebounds and made only 5 of 11 free throws.

On the other hand, Rain or Shine rookie Chris Tiu had an even worse debut, aggravating a hamstring injury. The former Smart Gilas captain could be out for two or three games.

In the first game, Ronald Tubid and Sean Anthony combined for three points in the last 78 seconds to lift Barako Bull past Air 21 Express, 90-87.

The Energy Boosters proved to be the much better team than the Express as they outlasted their sister team down the stretch to post their opening victory and join Ginebra at the leader board.

“We last played together just two weeks ago. Enrico (Villanueva) is still groping for form when it comes to our system. But it’s good he recovered in the second half. We hav a lot of new faces in our team and we need to build up chemistry as soon as possible,” said Barako Bull coach Junel Baculi.

Both were tied at 87-87 with only 2:07 remaining but the 6’4” forward Anthony, a transferee from the now defunct Powerade Tigers, split a charity to move the Energy Boosters up-front, 88-87.

“We struggled defensively throughout the game. We have to respect their shots and their ability. Danny Seigle sat this out because of a flu. He will be back hopefully for our game against Petron. Sean Anthony has his moments, with the exit of Willie Miller. It’s time for Ronald Tubid to step up the play. He is now the main man,” added Baculi.