PBA Finals: TNT has Ginebra ‘figured out,’ admits Justin Brownlee
Tim Cone and the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings during Game 2 of the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals against TNT. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Ginebra import Justin Brownlee simply stated what might be considered obvious for the Gin Kings after their Game 2 loss in the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals at the hands of TNT.
Ginebra dropped to a 0-2 hole after absorbing a 96-84 loss from the Tropang Giga at Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, raising concerns for Brownlee, who’s been taking notes regarding TNT’s defense.
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“We’re having some struggles offensively, it’s obvious,” said the Gilas naturalized player.
“It’s very difficult, they’re up 2-0. TNT has it going for the past couple games. Right now, to be honest, it seems like they got us figured out on their defensive side.”
Article continues after this advertisementFor the second straight game, TNT limited Ginebra to under 90 points. The Gin Kings, on paper, averaged 106.53 points per game prior to the PBA Finals.
Among those swingmen who are struggling in coach Tim Cone’s camp is Brownlee and he didn’t mind admitting the fact.
“I just have to adjust,” said Brownlee. “I have to find ways to get open and still remain confident that I’ll take those open shots and knock them down.”
READ: PBA Finals: RHJ propels TNT to 2-0 lead vs Ginebra
Usually averaging 28.32 points per night, the six-time PBA champion import finished with just 19 points, nine rebounds and three assists.
Much of Brownlee’s woes in the best-of-seven series are rooted from his counterpart’s stellar outings.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson gave Brownlee hell on defense, all while dropping a double-double of 37 points and 13 rebounds without taking a minute of rest on Wednesday’s dub.
READ: PBA Finals: Brownlee, Ginebra struggle vs TNT defense in Game 1 loss
Despite the struggles, Brownlee kept a positive outlook in what has been a lopsided series so far, saying it’s “first to four, not first to two.”
“It’s first to four, not first to two. We’re still confident, we still have faith in each other that we’ll figure it out, try to get a rhythm in Game 3 and try to turn this season around,” Brownlee saod.
Brownlee and the Gin Kings aim to finally crack the Finals’ win column on Friday for Game 3 at the same venue.
