EASL: Justin Brownlee earns Trillo’s praise after Bolts’ exit

Meralco Bolts’ import Justin Brownlee after an EASL game against Ryukyu Golden Kings. –EASL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Meralco coach Luigi Trillo had nothing but gratitude for Justin Brownlee following Meralco’s exit in the East Asia Super League (EASL).

After Meralco’s 88-79 loss to the Ryukyu Golden Kings, Trillo took time to thank Brownlee for suiting up—even if only for two games.

“I can’t say enough about Justin. He’s been a true pro. It was great to work with him. I wish we played a bit more with him,” Trillo said. “We didn’t get the result we wanted but we’re very appreciative.”

READ: EASL: Brownlee laments RHJ injury that cut short their pairing

Brownlee was initially expected to play earlier in the EASL campaign, but health issues delayed his arrival.

His stint briefly created a Brownlee–Rondae Hollis-Jefferson pairing, but that ended almost as soon as it began after Hollis-Jefferson ruptured his Achilles in Brownlee’s Meralco debut two months ago.

That left Brownlee to represent the Bolts in their last gasp effort to reach the EASL Finals.

Needing to win by at least six points to advance, Meralco instead fell by nine. Brownlee struggled with 12 points, six assists and four rebounds, making just three of 13 attempts from the field.

After an abysmal performance, Brownlee kept his doors open to make up for his final game for the Bolts.

“Hopefully, the chance comes in again. Personally, I didn’t think I played too well today but I hope I get another opportunity,” Brownlee said.

For now, Brownlee shifts his focus back to duties with Gilas Pilipinas and Barangay Ginebra in the coming weeks.