JUSTIN Brownlee became the winningest import in PBA history on Wednesday after Barangay Ginebra captured the 50th Season Commissioner’s Cup title.
Brownlee seized his seventh championship after the Gin Kings overcame TNT, 88-76, in Game 7 at the Mall of Asia Arena, surpassing Alaska great Sean Chambers in the all-time list.
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During the celebration, emotions got the better of Brownlee, who was seen in tears while being interviewed on TV.
“It’s everything,” he answered when asked about it afterwards. “I was thinking about the losses. I was thinking about the opportunity of being here. I’ve been very fortunate to play in 10 finals. I think that type of stuff normally doesn't happen. It’s just everything.”
Brownlee had 30 points in the clincher after scoring 54 and 52 markers over the previous two games. The Ginebra import was ably supported by Scottie Thompson, RJ Abarrientos, and Troy Rosario, who combined for 45 points.
Struggle, then success
Still, this may have been one of the toughest title runs, personally, for the 38 year old naturalized Filipino.
“I was playing through minor injuries this conference and I didn’t even think I was able to finish the conference at some point. But the training staff, they did an incredible job of keeping the guys ready, including myself,” he said.
The 6-foot-6 Brownlee also had to deal with a host of imports that who were worthy challengers, making this crown much sweeter.
“I think with the unlimited height, it was very challenging. Obviously, guys like Bol Bol, Jaylen Johnson. It was just a lot of really good imports. James Dickey, can’t forget about him. Like I said, it feels good. I’m kind of lost for words, but it just feels good," he said, talking about the reinforcements of the Tropang 5G, Rain or Shine, and Phoenix.
“We went through a lot this year. We had guys who went down with injuries. Even myself had some minor injuries. And being 38, I just never would have thought I’d be here, playing and competing for championships. But I’m just blessed and honored to be able to keep playing in the PBA.”
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