JUSTIN Brownlee has already proven that he has nerves of steel on the floor especially during crunch time for Barangay Ginebra.
But during Wednesday’s appearance at the House of Representatives, the longtime PBA import admitted nerves got to him as his naturalization process finally got going, with the chance to play for Gilas Pilipinas now in sight.
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“I must say I was bit nervous but just meeting all the [congressmen at the] House of Representatives and things like that, very eventful, very exciting for sure, but it was just great to be in that atmosphere,” Brownlee said.
Brownlee has hurdled the initial step in becoming a naturalized Filipino as House Bill 825 granting him Filipino citizenship was passed by the Committee on Justice on first reading.
The 34-year-old Brownlee said he is gladdened by the outpouring of support he has received in his bid to be naturalized.
“A lot of important people came, supporting me. I really appreciate it. I feel grateful and blessed to be in this position to be able to get naturalization process going forward. Hopefully, everything goes smooth for the rest of the way,” said Brownlee.
Even before the naturalization process got underway, Brownlee has already participated in practices of Gilas Pilipinas particularly during the build-up for the just-concluded fifth window of the Fiba Basketball World Cup Asian qualifiers.
Brownlee vowed to continue to be ready if called upon to contribute in any way he can even if he has yet to secure Filipino citizenship.
“I’m here to help the team in any kind of way, whether it’s games, practices, whatever it is. It feels great for it to start. Being around the team, seeing how they are playing and how they are progressing, I’m just excited to see what the future holds,” Brownlee said.
“I know Jordan Clarkson, Ange Kouame, those guys are part of the team as well. Just excited to see where it goes. I’m excited for the other players as well,” said Brownlee.
During the committee hearing at the House, Brownlee wore a barong, which he picked through the help of fellow players.
“It fits well. It feels good. It’s comfortable I must say. Traditionally, in the US, it’s suits. But it’s (barong) way more comfortable than wearing a suit. Keeps you a lot cooler as well. I love it. I like the look as well,” said Brownlee.
Brownlee also said he is looking to learn more Tagalog words, especially as he has a background in speaking Spanish.
“I’m trying, but coming from English, it’s very tough I must say. Of course, Tagalog is a lot different from English. Similar to Spanish though. Certain words, I know like ‘Kumusta’, similar to Spanish as well. Some of the words, I remember because I took Spanish way back,” said Brownlee.
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