Big Fajardo impact required for Gilas

MANILA (FIBA Asia Championship) - It will come as no surprise that new Philippines coach Tab Baldwin has big plans for June Mar Fajardo.

Baldwin, who has succeeded Chot Reyes at the helm, has identified one of the most dominant players of the PBA in 2014 and recently crowned winner of the 2014-15 Philippine Cup with San Miguel Beerman, Fajardo, as a key man moving forward for Gilas.

He had 15 points and nine rebounds in an 81-79 triumph over Senegal, their one and only victory in the competition.

"I think a good coach revolves his system with [around] the players that he has," Baldwin said in a interview with Radyo5.

"We will be trying to use June Mar Fajardo as a centerpiece of our team along with our naturalized player."

Baldwin also admitted that the 25-year-old has some work to do to become the consistent, effective player that Gilas need him to be.

June Mar has to take more steps internationally, he's doing a great job in the PBA. - Baldwin 

"He's a real tough assignment for any team as we are observing right now, but internationally, he's just another big man."

Marcus Douthit, who has played as a naturalized player for Gilas, says Fajardo is a player that can make a big difference for Gilas.

"June Mar has come a long way," Douthit said in the Philippines media.

"For coach Tab to have plans for him, it's great."

FIBA