Well-rested Justin Brownlee raring to go for Gilas

Justin Brownlee during Gilas Pilipinas’ open practice at Philsports Arena in Pasig City.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Back to playing basketball again with Gilas Pilipinas, Justin Brownlee has been making up for lost time while gearing up for the Fiba Asia Cup Qualifiers.

Brownlee returned to the Philippines earlier this month just days after completing a three-month suspension due to a failed doping test following Gilas’ historic gold medal run in last year’s Hangzhou Asian Games.

“It was a huge relief coming into practice seeing the guys, especially the young guys. They come with a lot of energy. Just being able to be back in the country and be around the basketball atmosphere, I just think it’s great,” said Brownlee on Monday.

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“[I’m] definitely ready to put the suspension and the ban past me and I’m looking forward to moving forward.”

Justin Brownlee.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Brownlee missed Barangay Ginebra’s campaign in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup where the Gin Kings got swept in the semifinals by eventual champions San Miguel Beermen.

Despite the long absence, Brownlee looked at the situation as glass half-full.

We know the #Filipino fans missed #JustinBrownlee… Well, seems like our very own #Kabayan feels the exact same way. Welcome back to #GilasPilipinas, #JB!

Follow @INQUIRERSports on Tiktok for more. pic.twitter.com/DGeoL5aF9v

— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) February 19, 2024

After all, the months-long break allowed his body to heal from the wear and tear of playing for Ginebra and Gilas.

“Just coming from that surgery before the Asian Games, these last few months, it definitely gave me a lot of time to heal and keep preparing myself. I’m a little older now so whenever I can get some rest, I’ll take it,” said the 35-year-old Brownlee.