(PBA image)
PBA great Ramon Fernandez received the tribute of a lifetime as the PBA Press Corps announced that the Finals Most Valuable Player trophy will now bear his name, starting with the upcoming PBA Philippine Cup Finals.
The league’s first four-time MVP expressed deep gratitude for the honor, calling it an unexpected but deeply meaningful recognition during the Philippine Basketball Association’s 50th anniversary season.
“To have the PBA Finals MVP trophy bear my name, especially in this 50th year, the Golden Anniversary of the Philippine Basketball Association, is something I never imagined yet will forever treasure,” said Fernandez following the announcement on Thursday.
He described the distinction as far more than a personal accolade, but a reflection of a life shaped by the league that became his second home.
“The PBA was my battlefield, my classroom and my home. It was where I learned discipline, sacrifice, resilience, teamwork, humility and the meaning of leadership under pressure,” Fernandez said. “Every championship fought for, every Finals series endured, every cheer and every criticism molded the player and the man I became.”
The PBA Press Corps chose to name the Finals MVP trophy after Fernandez in recognition of his unparalleled résumé, highlighted by a league-record 19 championships—making him the most decorated winner in PBA history.
The Finals MVP award was first introduced in 1996, with Jojo Lastimosa winning the inaugural honor after leading Alaska to the All-Filipino Cup title. Last season, San Miguel Beer guard Jericho Cruz claimed the award in the Philippine Cup Finals. All-time greats June Mar Fajardo, Danny Seigle, LA Tenorio, and James Yap currently share the record for most Finals MVP honors with four each.
Fernandez hopes the trophy carrying his name will stand for more than numbers and trophies.
“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,” he said. “If this inspires even one player to play harder, lead better and honor the league that raised us, then this recognition has found its true purpose.”
Widely regarded as one of the greatest and most popular players the league has ever produced, Fernandez still holds numerous PBA records, including most career points with 18,996, rebounds with 8,652, defensive rebounds with 6,435, blocks with 1,853, free throws made with 3,848, and minutes played with 36,624.
His storied career included starring roles for legendary teams, most notably the Toyota franchise, where he won nine championships, and San Miguel’s historic Grand Slam squad in 1989.
“To the PBA, thank you for the privilege of wearing the jersey, battling on the hardwood and representing the league here and abroad,” Fernandez said. “To my teammates, coaches, opponents, and the many unsung heroes behind the scenes, this honor belongs to all of us who gave our hearts to the game.”
He saved his final words for the fans whose support has endured long after his playing days ended.
“And to the fans, then and now, thank you for the love that never faded,” Fernandez said. “Even after the final buzzer of my playing days, I still feel your support, your respect and your belief. That is a gift no trophy can ever surpass.”