No less than Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) legend Ramon Fernandez will hand over the Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) trophy named after him to the winner at the conclusion of the Season 50 Philippine Cup championship.
The now Cebu-based 72-year-old great was present Sunday night in Game 6 of the finals series between defending champion San Miguel Beer and TNT at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Beermen are looking to finish off the Tropang 5G as of press time.
In case TNT forces a Game 7, Fernandez will also grace the do-or-die to award the Finals MVP hardware.
An initiative of the PBA Press Corps, the Ramon Fernandez Trophy bears the image and likeness of the 19-time PBA champion.
The trophy’s dimensions were inspired by the four-time MVPs records and accomplishments throughout his 20-year career in Asia’s first professional league.
Standing 19 inches with a four-inch base as a homage to his 19 titles, the most by any player, Fernandez’s figure has 15-inch length and a 19-inch circumference circular base.
“As future Finals MVPs lift this trophy, may they remember that greatness is not only measured by statistics or championships but by character, commitment and love for the game,” Fernandez said.
Nine-time Season MVP June Mar Fajardo of San Miguel is a strong contender for the Finals MVP trophy, honoring his fellow Cebu pride.
On the TNT side, Calvin Oftana, Rey Nambatac and Jordan Heading are top choices.