WITH Justin Brownlee getting the green light to play for the Philippines in the FIBA Asia Cup, the question now is if he'll be fully physically ready for the grind in the August 5-17 joust in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
The 37-year-old Brownlee recently underwent surgery for the dislocated right thumb he suffered during the course of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals between TNT and Barangay Ginebra two months ago.
READ: No Fiba suspension for Brownlee ahead of Gilas bid in Asia Cup
“I think the pressing issue is his hand, kasi he had surgery. I think a few weeks ago. And that’s the only thing, how soon he recovers from that,” said SBP President Al S. Panlilio.
Brownlee had his surgery done here in the country, but the long-time Ginebra resident import is currently back in the US.
Panlilio however, said he’s being told that Brownlee’s surgery wouldn’t be an issue if he does get the nod to play from FIBA.
“I’m getting assurances naman na that shouldn’t be an issue. We still have about three months for him to recover,” added the SBP chief.
The last Commissioner’s Cup finals, even though Ginebra lost, was one concrete proof of the import’s resiliency as Brownlee almost delivered the crowd-favorites to the promised land once more.
“During the championship series the last time, it was already impossible for him to play and sabi nga ni Tim (Cone), if you take out the tape (in his hand), it’s dangling (thumb),” said Panlilio.
“So the mere fact that he still found a way to continue to play with that kind of injury just speaks volume in terms of the type of person Justin is.”
Asked if Brownlee is back practicing with his newly operated right hand, Panlilio said he has no idea.
“I’m not aware. I haven’t spoken to Richard (Del Rosario),” he said, referring to the Gilas team manager. “But you know Justin. I’m sure he’s working hard to recover.”
At the moment, the SBP still awaits the formal statement from FIBA about whether Brownlee will be a go in the Asia Cup following an ‘adverse analytical finding on his urine sample during the last qualifier of the same tournament.
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