WHILE June Mar Fajardo’s newfound three-point shot is a welcome development to the national team, Team Pilipinas head coach Yeng Guiao doesn’t see the five-time Most Valuable Player hoisting shots from beyond the arc in international competitions.
The San Miguel star hit his first three-pointer of the season on Friday at the expense of Guiao and NLEX during the Beermen’s 121-111 win over the Road Warriors.
Guiao, however, said Fajardo does not need to take the three-point shot on a regular basis with the national team even though his system allows big men to shoot the perimeter shot.
For Guiao, Fajardo’s medium range shot is enough for him to be effective for Team Pilipinas.
“For the purposes of the national team, his medium range shot is good enough. He doesn’t need to shoot a three to be effective as long as you can step out and shoot 15, 16-foot jumpers,” Guiao said.
Despite converting a three-pointer in their match against NLEX, Fajardo said he also does not plan to take more threes in the PBA, with the Beermen already loaded with shooters.
Fajardo added he only took the three-point shot out of necessity as the shotclock was winding down during the first quarter of the match which made San Miguel’s lead increased to 28-4.
Guiao also doesn’t see Fajardo using the three-point weapon in the PBA.
“I think every once in a while, he is going to hit the three-point shot but I don’t see him doing that on a regular basis. It’s something that you have to develop for a longer period of time. This will take a lot more three-point shots. Every once in a while, that’s going to happen,” said Guiao.