Gilas faces uncertainty as Justin Brownlee battles illness ahead of World Cup qualifiers

As Gilas Pilipinas prepares to open its campaign in the FIBA Asia World Cup Qualifiers later this month, one major question looms large: Will Justin Brownlee be ready to go?

The 37-year-old naturalized star, a proven cornerstone of the national team’s success, is reportedly dealing with pneumonia — casting doubt on his availability for the opening window against Guam. 

While there’s been no official confirmation from Gilas or the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), Brownlee’s prolonged absence from Meralco’s EASL Home and Away Season 3 games has fueled speculation about his health.

Brownlee was expected to suit up for the Bolts this month but has yet to return from the United States. His continued absence has forced Meralco to explore reinforcement options, including tapping fellow Gilas naturalized player Ange Kouame for Saturday’s matchup against the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots in Ilagan, Isabela.

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Fans have begun voicing their concern for Justin Brownlee as uncertainty continues to surround his current situation. Everyone is hoping that all is well with the beloved import. pic.twitter.com/Mvb47yn9pq

— Barangay Ginebra San Miguel (@brgyginebraphl) November 1, 2025

For Gilas, the timing couldn’t be trickier. The team is set to begin its training camp on November 17, coinciding with an 18-day break in the PBA Philippine Cup to accommodate the national squad’s preparation. 

The Filipinos will open their qualifiers on November 28 against Guam at the UOG Calvo Field House, before returning home to host the same opponent on December 1 at the Blue Eagle Gym.

Brownlee’s last stint with the national team came during the FIBA Asia Cup in Saudi Arabia, where Gilas advanced to the quarterfinals before bowing to powerhouse Australia and settling for seventh place. 

The Philippines once again finds itself in Group A alongside Australia, New Zealand, and Guam — a challenging bracket that will test the squad’s depth and chemistry.

If Brownlee remains sidelined, Gilas could lean more heavily on Kouame or other PBA-based standouts to fill the leadership and scoring void. 

Still, for coach Tim Cone and the rest of the program, there’s hope that their veteran leader — who has built a legacy on resilience — will recover in time to don the national colors once more.

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