"JB" just won't cut it anymore.
It looks like Justin Brownlee will become a Filipino citizen and consequently don the Gilas Pilipinas colors sooner than later.
With both the House of Representatives and the Senate approving on final reading their respective measures for the naturalization of Brownlee, the two-time Best Import's Filipino citizenship is all but here.
If it clears the bicameral conference and afterwards the Office of the President, he will finally be granted naturalization — hopefully in time for the sixth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in February next year.
But while it is still in the process, Brownlee seems to have gone ahead.
When asked what he wants to be his own moniker, JB did not hesitate.
"Justin Noypi," speaking with a big smile all over his face.
And with the Ginebra Gin Kings' upcoming gigantic clash against the Bay Area Dragons in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Brownlee will need to embody the Pinoy brand of toughness. He sounds like he is ready.
“It’s really overwhelming I must say, but you know I think I’m prepared for the moments, for the upcoming moments. With the Finals I think the team is very prepared, very confident.“
The series starts on Christmas Day at the Mall of Asia Arena.