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Justin Brownlee Delivers Yet Again; Lifts Gilas Pilipinas To FIBA Asia Cup Quarterfinals
Photo credit: FIBA Asia
Justin Brownlee has made a career out of rescuing his teams in the most critical moments—and on Monday night in Jeddah, he did it once more.
The 37-year-old naturalized forward willed Gilas Pilipinas past Saudi Arabia, 95-88, in overtime to secure a coveted spot in the quarterfinals of the 31st FIBA Asia Cup. With the Philippines staring at a six-point deficit and less than two minutes left in regulation, Brownlee erupted, scoring eight of the team’s final 10 points. His most crucial shot—a cold-blooded three-pointer—sent the game into extra time.
“These are the games you dream about and really look forward to playing,” said Brownlee, who finished with 29 points at the packed King Abdullah Sports City. “Luckily, I’m happy we came away with the win and advanced in the tournament.”
Brownlee’s shooting touch was back in full force. He went 11-of-16 from the field and 3-of-5 from deep, erasing memories of his eight-point outing in Gilas’ group stage finale against Iraq. But the veteran was quick to acknowledge that heroics don’t always happen—and that courage plays a big part.
“As a player, when you see the opportunity, you have to go after it,” he said. “It doesn’t always work in your favor—you can’t make every shot—but you have to have the courage to take those opportunities.”
Brownlee also credited his teammates for their trust and support. “I’m just blessed to be in that position to take those shots. My teammates have a lot of confidence in me, and they inspire me to make them,” he added.
The victory marks Gilas Pilipinas’ first trip to the Asia Cup quarterfinals since 2017. Their next challenge will be monumental—taking on defending back-to-back champions Australia on Wednesday.
For now, though, Brownlee and the rest of Gilas can savor the win, knowing that once again, when the game was on the line, their go-to man was ready.
The 37-year-old naturalized forward willed Gilas Pilipinas past Saudi Arabia, 95-88, in overtime to secure a coveted spot in the quarterfinals of the 31st FIBA Asia Cup. With the Philippines staring at a six-point deficit and less than two minutes left in regulation, Brownlee erupted, scoring eight of the team’s final 10 points. His most crucial shot—a cold-blooded three-pointer—sent the game into extra time.
“These are the games you dream about and really look forward to playing,” said Brownlee, who finished with 29 points at the packed King Abdullah Sports City. “Luckily, I’m happy we came away with the win and advanced in the tournament.”
Brownlee’s shooting touch was back in full force. He went 11-of-16 from the field and 3-of-5 from deep, erasing memories of his eight-point outing in Gilas’ group stage finale against Iraq. But the veteran was quick to acknowledge that heroics don’t always happen—and that courage plays a big part.
“As a player, when you see the opportunity, you have to go after it,” he said. “It doesn’t always work in your favor—you can’t make every shot—but you have to have the courage to take those opportunities.”
Brownlee also credited his teammates for their trust and support. “I’m just blessed to be in that position to take those shots. My teammates have a lot of confidence in me, and they inspire me to make them,” he added.
The victory marks Gilas Pilipinas’ first trip to the Asia Cup quarterfinals since 2017. Their next challenge will be monumental—taking on defending back-to-back champions Australia on Wednesday.
For now, though, Brownlee and the rest of Gilas can savor the win, knowing that once again, when the game was on the line, their go-to man was ready.
Aug 12, 2025
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