Justin Brownlee confirmed to play for Gilas in FIBA World Cup qualifiers

After weeks of mystery, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has confirmed the availability of star Justin Brownlee for Gilas Pilipinas in the upcoming FIBA World Cup Asia Qualifiers window.

SBP director Erika Dy confirmed on The Starting Lineup that Browlee is already on the way to the country for training.

“The SBP has been in contact with him [Justin Brownlee]. If I’m not mistaken, he’s already on his way back home to the Philippines,” Dy said. “He will be playing with us tis (FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers) window.”

The Ginebra import’s availability has been debated for weeks after reports stated that Brownlee had contracted pneumonia and was unable to suit up for the Meralco Bolts in the East Asian Super League (EASL).

Brownlee has been an integral part of head coach Tim Cone’s lineup, especially in the FIBA Asia Cup last August.

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NEVER SAY DIE 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭

UNBELIEVABLE. UNBELIEVABLE GAME-END 🤯 Justin Brownlee keeps Gilas alive and they march onto the Quarter-Finals with an OT win 🔥#AsiaCup pic.twitter.com/uaj1JsSHLf

— FIBA Basketball (@FIBA) August 11, 2025

In Saudi Arabia, Brownlee led Gilas with stunning performances to reach the quarterfinals, where they faltered against arch-rivals Australia.

Aside from Brownlee, Gilas veterans Japeth Aguilar, June Mar Fajardo, and Aj Edu. Chris Newsome, Jamie Malonzo, Kai Sotto, Ange Kouame, CJ Perez, Carl Tamayo, Scottie Thompson, Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos, and Calvin Oftana will also be present.

Quentin Millora-Brown was also tapped to bolster the roster alongside fellow new addition RJ Abarrientos.

The pool includes the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup roster, namely Japeth Aguilar, Justin Brownlee, AJ Edu, June Mar Fajardo, Jamie Malonzo, Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos, Carl Tamayo, and Scottie Thompson. 

Alongside Guam, Gilas Pilipinas will battle against powerhouse Australia and New Zealand in Group A.

Gilas will play Guam in the first game held at Calvo Field House on Friday, Nov. 28, and again on Monday, Dec. 1, at the Blue Eagle Gym.

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