More good news ahead of Gilas’ preparations for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers
It would not be long before Gilas Pilipinas fans see Justin Brownlee back in the Philippines. In fact, it might just be days away.
After the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas’ (SBP) announced that Brownlee has been cleared to play for the national team, many fans were wondering when they’ would see the long-time Barangay Ginebra import back in the country.
During a halftime interview in Game 2 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals between San Miguel and Magnolia, courtside reporter Apple David spoke with newly-appointed SBP executive director Erika Dy about Brownlee’s status for the upcoming FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers.
“We're very happy to report that Justin can officially play beginning the 9th of February,” said Dy. “That's when his three-month suspension ends, and so we're trying to bring him into the country back home within this week.”
Dy also explained that Brownlee can already join Gilas’ training should he arrive in the country before Feb. 9.
“Under the rules, he can actually start training already because he is within the last quarter of that suspension period, pero to play in an official game, 9th of February, and that's enough time to get him ready for the 22nd and the 25th,” said Dy.
Once he returns, Brownlee will be joining his Ginebra teammates Scottie Thompson and Jamie Malonzo in the squad led by coach Tim Cone.
Brownlee will also get to play alongside some of his Asian Games teammates such as Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez and June Mar Fajardo.
He is also set to build chemistry with some of the younger players in the team like Dwight Ramos, AJ Edu, Carl Tamayo, Kai Sotto and Kevin Quiambao.
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Gilas will face Hong Kong on February 22 at the Tsuen Wan Stadium and Chinese Taipei on February 25 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.