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Joaquin Henson - The Philippine Star
March 23, 2025 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — From how Justin Brownlee played in Game 4 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals at the Ynares Center, Antipolo, last Friday, it looks like he’s determined to finish the best-of-seven series between Barangay Ginebra and TNT, despite a torn ligament in his reinstated right thumb.
Brownlee hurt his thumb in a dive for the loose ball in the third quarter of Game 3 and was rushed to the hospital for treatment. An X-ray showed no fracture and Brownlee showed up for practice the next day with a thermoplast splint and heavy tape to stabilize the thumb. Ginebra physiotherapist Arcee Cua was credited for putting the thumb back in place minutes after the incident and a sports medical practitioner said a delay would’ve made it more difficult to restore the finger by closed means.
Function and stability are the key factors in deciding whether a dislocated finger will be a hindrance to an athlete’s performance. If an athlete insists he’s able to function and take the risk of playing through controlled pain, it’s acceptable in sports while doctors may advise otherwise, ultimately, the decision rests with the injured party.
Brownlee delivered an impactful showing in Game 4 with his thumb heavily taped to remain in place, finishing with 23 points, 12 rebounds and five assists in 45:32 minutes. Brownlee didn’t commit a foul but it wasn’t because he backed off from the physicality of contact. He stayed home on defense and did his part switching off ball screens.
It’s likely that Brownlee will finish the series before he’s evaluated for surgery or not. Surgery is only needed if the thumb is unstable and can be done at a later date. If an operation is required, the recovery will be over four to six months so it will cut into the FIBA Asia Cup schedule in Jeddah on Aug. 5-17. At the moment, Brownlee’s availability to play is on a day-to-day basis, depending on how he feels. A hand specialist is expected to examine Brownlee but it will be after the Finals.
A similar accident happened during a Gilas practice at Meralco in 2023. Chris Newsome dislocated his thumb which was put back in its socket within minutes. With medical guidance, Newsome continued to play and never had surgery as the thumb stayed stable. Kobe Bryant also sustained a dislocated finger, played through it and never missed a game.
