One down, one more game to go for JB in this sixth window. But he’s certainly making a case to stay as Gilas' naturalized player moving forward.
17 points. 4 boards. 5 dimes. 2 steals.
Those are not exactly eye-popping numbers, but the eye test says they’re just what Gilas needed—maybe even more—as Team Philippines defeated Lebanon 107-96 in their FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers sixth window matchup.
In his debut as a naturalized player, Justin Brownlee delivered the aforementioned stat line while giving the national team a different look on both offense and defense.
Armed with the ability to knock down shots from just about anywhere, the three-time PBA Best Import provided size while stretching the floor. Of his three attempts from beyond the arc, JB swished two for a blistering 66.7% clip that kept the defense honest. As a team, Gilas followed suit and knocked down 17 big three-pointers on 47% shooting.
An ever-willing passer, Brownlee dished out 5 assists. More importantly, his play was contagious, as Gilas again mirrored its naturalized leader and dropped 31 assists as a team, compared to Lebanon’s 17.
Six Gilas hoopers scored in double figures as a welcome consequence of that ball distribution, including 15 points from Jamie Malonzo, who notched a team-high +15, and 13 points from Mason Amos, who had a perfect 5-for-5 shooting night. The 107 points by the team is also their highest scoring output in the Asian Qualifiers.
Humble as he is, Justin Noypi attributed the win to the entire squad.
“The team played well together,” he said post-game. “We got the win. We played a great team in Lebanon. We fought hard, they fought hard. Just all around a good game.”
The crowd favorite also gave credit to the fans. After all the championships he won with his PBA mother team, Barangay Ginebra, the Philippine Arena can be considered as Brownlee's home court. It surely felt that way on Friday.
“Unlimited joy,” said Brownlee when asked about his debut donning the Gilas blue before the Filipino fans. “Great atmosphere. Got a lot of joy,” he said with a smile. One that he has been wearing since he got naturalized.
The national team will look to carry over its momentum on Monday when they face Jordan. Catch it at 6 p.m. on One Sports and One Sports+.