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JUMP SHOT. Justin Brownlee in action for Barangay Ginebra in the 2024-25 PBA Commissioner's Cup.
PBA Images
Justin Brownlee exits in the third quarter after hurting his right thumb as Barangay Ginebra loses a close one to TNT in Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner's Cup finals
MANILA, Philippines – Barangay Ginebra opts to stay optimistic on the return of Justin Brownlee after the star import suffered a dislocated finger on his shooting hand in Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals.
Brownlee bent his right thumb when he broke his fall after diving for the ball with over six minutes left in the third quarter of their 87-85 loss to TNT on Wednesday, March 19.
The Gin Kings’ staff tried to nurse Brownlee, but he never returned and was instead brought to the hospital to have his hand checked.
HURT. Barangay Ginebra import Justin Brownlee is in pain after injuring his right thumb in Game 3 of the 2024-25 PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals. PBA Images“We’re still hoping for the best. If it’s dislocated, then hopefully, there’s nothing broken,” said Ginebra assistant coach Richard del Rosario in a mix of Filipino and English.
Losing Brownlee would be a gut punch for a Gin Kings side seeking to finally beat the Tropang Giga after losses in their last two title duels.
Through three games in the best-of-seven affair, the three-time Best Import is averaging 27.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists.
Brownlee even topscored for Ginebra in Game 3 with 19 points on top of 6 assists and 4 rebounds despite playing just 28 minutes.
“Definitely, it’s a big concern. Justin provides a lot of stuff for us, not only on offense but on defense. A part of our system revolves around Justin,” said Del Rosario.
“We’re still hoping that he can play. Justin’s a warrior. As long as he can play, if it’s just minor, he’ll play. We’re just waiting, and hopefully, we get good news.”
Even without Brownlee, though, the Gin Kings remained competitive until the end before Rey Nambatac drained a tie-breaking three-pointer with 30 seconds left that allowed TNT to escape with a 2-1 series lead.
“We don’t view it as an excuse. We still expect to win. Because this is the championship, there’s no time for excuses,” said Del Rosario.
It will be a short turnaround for Ginebra as it gets only a one-day break before it returns to action in Game 4 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Friday, March 21. – Rappler.com
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