SBP optimistic about Justin Brownlee's chances for Gilas Pilipinas in FIBA Asia Cup

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas said it is optimistic about the chances of Justin Brownlee playing for Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Cup.

Back in the PBA Commissioner's Cup finals last March, Brownlee had a finger injury but he still managed to finish the series against TNT who won the title.

Days after, SBP said it is aware that Brownlee has received notice of an 'adverse analytical finding' which in sports is related to doping regulations.

The basketball body, however, said things are looking good for Brownlee.

"We're hearing positively, so we want to keep it at that," SBP president Al Panlilio said on Friday.

This was also confirmed by SBP executive director Erika Dy.

"Just to clarify matters, there's no suspension at this point in time," Dy said.

"And we don't expect any. There's just a lot of delicate details that we cannot discuss because doping is a very delicate matter, sensitive matter. It's very personal. That's why Brownlee and his lawyers are handling it himself, and also his medical doctors."

SBP executive director Erika Dy on Justin Brownlee @gmasportsph pic.twitter.com/V4mYTXoRmY

— JK Carandang (@jk_carandang) May 9, 2025

SBP is also optimistic about Brownlee recovering just in time for the FIBA Asia Cup in August.

"He had surgery, I think, a few weeks ago... That's the only thing. I'm getting assurances. June, July, we still have about three months for him."

Gilas Pilipinas team manager and SMC sports director Alfrancis Chua said Brownlee will also be able to recover and practice soon.

"Sabi mag-start siya ng training sa court ng July or last week ng June. Ang maganda doon, daliri 'yun eh, puwede siya tumakbo, puwede siya magpakondisyon. Hopefully, makabalik," Chua said.

Gilas Pilipinas will compete in the FIBA Asia Cup this August in Saudi Arabia.

—GMA Integrated News