After months of waiting in limbo, Justin Brownlee is officially back in action for Gilas Pilipinas—and just in time. The naturalized Filipino standout returns with a clean slate and renewed focus as the national squad kicks off its final push toward the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Brownlee, a fan favorite and key figure in the team’s recent international campaigns, was cleared by FIBA following an extended review of his flagged anti-doping test last year. While the test revealed traces of carboxy-THC—a metabolite associated with cannabis—FIBA ruled that it did not constitute a violation, thanks to an approved Therapeutic Use Exemption. The decision allows Brownlee to rejoin Gilas with full eligibility for the tournament.
The return couldn’t come at a more crucial time. With less than a month before tipoff in Jeddah, Gilas has shifted into high gear, running twice-daily training sessions under head coach Tim Cone. Brownlee, still working back into peak condition after nursing a thumb injury, has jumped right into practices.
“I’m just grateful to be back,” Brownlee said upon his return. “There’s nothing like putting on the Gilas jersey. I’m ready to work and help us win.”
His presence injects veteran leadership and playmaking to a roster still coming together due to ongoing commitments and injury concerns. Despite the compressed timeline, Cone and the rest of the coaching staff are focused on continuity and cohesion—hallmarks of their success in previous tournaments.
Among the familiar faces already deep into training are Dwight Ramos, Scottie Thompson, Jamie Malonzo, Chris Newsome, Carl Tamayo, AJ Edu, and Japeth Aguilar. New additions like RJ Abarrientos and Troy Rosario are also blending in, while the final roster is expected to solidify after the Philippine Cup Finals. Kevin Quiambao, June Mar Fajardo, CJay Perez, and Calvin Oftana are anticipated to join camp in the coming days.
A short training camp in Pampanga from July 25 to 27 will help sharpen the team’s defensive schemes and on-court chemistry. The final dress rehearsal comes in the form of a send-off match against the Macau Black Bears at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on July 28—an opportunity for fans to see the team in action before they head to Jeddah.
Despite the ongoing juggling act with player availability and tight scheduling, the mood in the Gilas camp is optimistic.
“Coach Tim has emphasized that it’s not about having a long buildup—it’s about making the most of the time we have,” said Gilas captain Scottie Thompson. “We’re focused, and everyone’s buying into the system.”
SBP president Al Panlilio echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the value of a more streamlined player pool and the cooperation of the PBA in adjusting its calendar to accommodate the national team.
“There’s always going to be challenges, but what’s important is that we’re aligned,” Panlilio said. “We’re grateful for the support and confident in what this group can achieve.”
With a healthy Brownlee back in the mix, the energy is rising. And as the countdown to the FIBA Asia Cup continues, one thing is certain: Gilas Pilipinas is ready to fight.