Breaking News: PBA Superstar June Mar Fajardo Signs with Golden State Warriors for the 2025-2026 NBA Season.
In a move that has stunned both the basketball world in the Philippines and the global NBA community, six-time PBA MVP and San Miguel Beermen icon June Mar Fajardo has officially signed a contract with the Golden State Warriors for the 2025–2026 NBA season. The news comes as a shock to many fans and analysts, as Fajardo has long been considered a Philippine basketball legend but not necessarily a likely candidate for an NBA stint, especially this late in his career. Yet here we are—witnessing a historic moment that redefines both the reach of Filipino basketball and the strategic direction of one of the most decorated NBA franchises in modern times.
Fajardo, who has dominated the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) for over a decade, brings a resume that includes multiple championships, MVP awards, and a reputation as the most unguardable big man in Asia. Known as “The Kraken” for his sheer size, strength, and mobility in the paint, June Mar has consistently proven himself on the domestic front. What makes this development even more intriguing is that it is occurring at a time when the Golden State Warriors are undergoing a transformative phase. With an aging core led by Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, and with Klay Thompson having departed to the Dallas Mavericks in the offseason, the Warriors are clearly looking to reshape their roster with both talent and international flavor.
For Fajardo, this is more than a career move—it is a legacy-defining leap. He has always been vocal about representing the Philippines on the biggest stage. Over the years, he’s donned the national colors with pride in multiple FIBA competitions, including the FIBA World Cup and the Asian Games. However, those tournaments only provided glimpses of his abilities to the broader basketball community. The NBA, however, is an entirely different beast, and now he has the opportunity to test his mettle against the best in the world on a nightly basis.
Reports indicate that Fajardo’s contract is a one-year veteran minimum deal with performance-based incentives, including bonus payouts for making the playoffs, playing a minimum number of games, and contributing in statistical categories like rebounds and blocks. While the deal may not reflect superstar money, it represents a historic moment for Filipino basketball players—proof that even those who have built their careers outside the traditional NBA pipeline can find a way into the league.
Warriors General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. addressed the media shortly after the signing was made official. “We are thrilled to bring in someone like June Mar Fajardo. He’s not just a dominant big man; he’s a proven leader, and his impact transcends the court. We believe he brings a unique skillset that fits well with our evolving system. And of course, his global appeal, especially in the Philippines, makes this an incredibly exciting time for us as an organization.”
Fajardo’s arrival comes at a time when the Warriors are clearly looking to add more physicality and presence in the frontcourt. The team struggled throughout the previous season with rim protection, rebounding, and interior scoring. Kevon Looney’s minutes were inconsistent, and while Draymond Green continues to anchor the defense, he’s undersized as a true center. Adding someone like Fajardo, who’s listed at 6’10” and around 270 pounds, gives the Warriors a true low-post presence they haven’t had in years.
It’s also worth noting that this move signals a broader trend in the NBA: a deepening interest in international talent, particularly from regions historically underrepresented in the league. While players from Europe, Africa, and Australia have become mainstays in the NBA, Southeast Asia—despite its rabid basketball fanbase—has had limited representation. June Mar Fajardo’s signing could serve as a gateway for more Filipino and Southeast Asian talents to get a real look from NBA teams.
Social media erupted the moment the news broke. Filipino fans took to Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram in celebration, calling it a dream come true not just for Fajardo, but for the country. Hashtags like #FajardoToNBA and #PinoyPride trended within minutes. Even President of the Philippines expressed his congratulations, saying, “This is a proud moment for all Filipinos. June Mar has shown that with hard work and humility, even the highest peaks can be reached.”
Reactions from former and current PBA players were equally enthusiastic. Barangay Ginebra’s LA Tenorio commented, “June Mar has carried Philippine basketball on his shoulders for years. To see him finally recognized on the global stage—it’s beautiful. This is something every young player in the Philippines will remember for the rest of their lives.”
Meanwhile, the PBA issued an official statement celebrating Fajardo’s career and expressing support for his NBA journey. “June Mar Fajardo is a cornerstone of our league and will always be family. While we will miss his presence on the court, we wholeheartedly support his dream of playing in the NBA. We know he will represent the Philippines and the PBA with honor.”
As for Fajardo himself, he remained his usual humble self during the press conference held in San Francisco. “I never imagined this day would come,” he said, holding back emotion. “I’ve always played the game for the love of it, for my family, and for my country. To have this chance with the Golden State Warriors, one of the greatest teams in NBA history—it’s a blessing. I know I have a lot to prove, but I’m ready to work.”
When asked about adjusting to the NBA’s faster pace and athleticism, Fajardo acknowledged the challenge but seemed undeterred. “It’s a different level, yes. But basketball is basketball. I will learn from my coaches, from my teammates, and I will give my all every time I step on the court.”
Analysts have already begun speculating about how Steve Kerr might integrate Fajardo into the Warriors’ offense and defense. While the team is known for its fast-paced, perimeter-oriented style, Kerr has shown in the past that he can adjust his system to fit his personnel. In Fajardo’s case, his ability to score in the low post, pass out of double teams, and anchor a defense in the paint could offer the Warriors some much-needed versatility.
In preseason action, it is expected that Fajardo will get ample minutes to showcase his skill set, particularly in matchups against traditional centers. His ability to read the floor, maintain poise under pressure, and finish through contact will all be under the microscope. But perhaps the most important thing he brings is intangibility—experience, resilience, and the heart of a warrior.
The Warriors’ upcoming preseason games have suddenly become must-watch TV in the Philippines and among international basketball fans. NBA League Pass subscriptions in Southeast Asia are expected to surge, and merchandise featuring Fajardo’s name and number will likely be among the top sellers in Asia this season.
The business side of the move cannot be ignored. For the Warriors, signing Fajardo is also a strategic marketing masterstroke. The NBA has long sought to grow its brand in Southeast Asia, and Fajardo’s presence will almost certainly accelerate that process. Partnerships with Filipino companies, increased viewership from the region, and a boom in Warriors merchandise sales are all anticipated outcomes.
But beyond the numbers and analytics, the story is about belief. It’s about showing millions of aspiring young players in the Philippines and beyond that dreams don’t have borders. That even if you come from a small town in Cebu and build your game in the PBA, the NBA is not an impossible mountain to climb.
Fajardo’s NBA chapter is just beginning, and while there will be bumps along the road, one thing is certain—his journey has already made history. Whether he ends up playing significant minutes or serves as a valuable veteran presence on the bench, his mere presence on an NBA roster is monumental.
As the 2025–2026 NBA season draws near, all eyes will be on the Golden State Warriors—not just because of Steph Curry, but because of a gentle giant from the Philippines who dared to dream bigger than anyone thought possible. June Mar Fajardo isn’t just joining a team. He’s bringing a nation with him.
