Justin Brownlee sees lessons amid Gilas Pilipinas’ setbacks in harder second window of FIBA Qualifiers 

After Gilas Pilipinas suffered back-to-back defeats to New Zealand and Australia in Window 2 of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, Justin Brownlee opted to reflect rather than dwell on frustration. The Philippines now sits at an even 2-2 record, carrying their first-round results into the second phase.

Coming off a flawless Window 1 with commanding wins over Guam, the setbacks against the Tall Blacks and Boomers reminded the team of the challenge of competing against basketball’s elite.

“I think this window, it definitely gave us a lot of experience in playing teams like New Zealand and Australia. They give you that high level,” Brownlee said after Sunday’s 66-93 loss to Australia at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. “These two are some of the best teams worldwide.”

Gilas kept pace in the first half, with Brownlee and Quentin Millora-Brown combining to keep the hosts within five points at halftime, 33-38. 

The second half, however, exposed the depth and talent of the Boomers. Led by Elijah Pepper, Tanner Krebs, and the returning Mitch Creek, Australia surged ahead, building a 17-point advantage that Gilas could not overcome. 

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SOLID FIGHT FROM JUSTIN NOYPI

Despite the tough loss against Australia, Justin Brownlee came alive and delivered important numbers for the Gilas Pilipinas Men in the second window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.#GilasPilipinas #FIBAWC #FIBAACQ pic.twitter.com/e1ITDBBsAH

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) March 1, 2026

For the 37-year-old forward, these contests are not only a test of his own game but a vital experience for Gilas’ younger core, which includes Kevin Quiambao, Carl Tamayo, AJ Edu, and Millora-Brown.

“I appreciate the experience, just like for sure the whole team did, and the coaching staff and the whole program. They appreciate the experience. Hopefully, we just have to get better from this,” Brownlee said.

Individually, Brownlee rebounded from a quiet four-point outing against New Zealand, leading Gilas with 20 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and a steal against the Boomers. 

Yet he emphasized that personal performance is secondary to team objectives. His focus remains on guiding Gilas to wins in upcoming rematches against both New Zealand and Australia in Window 3.

“It always feels good to get back into the rhythm, but unfortunately, the main goal tonight was to win. Whether I am in rhythm or not, the main goal is just to try to get the win,” Brownlee shared. 

“Obviously, as a player, you want to try to get into rhythm and get going for your team. We just have to regroup and just come out better next time.” 

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