Justin Brownlee cleared to play for Gilas in FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers
MANILA, Philippines — Naturalized player Justin Brownlee is eager to return to the court as he has been given clearance by FIBA to play for Gilas Pilipinas after being suspended due to an anti-doping rule violation.
Brownlee, who has been sidelined since the conclusion of Gilas’ victory in the Hangzhou Asian Games last October, expressed his excitement at the opportunity to play basketball again.
According to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), FIBA issued Brownlee a “Notice of Charge carrying a proposed three-month Period of Ineligibility” in relation to his doping case during the Asiad. However, Brownlee opted to serve a “provisional suspension period,” which began on Nov. 9, 2023.
The SBP stated that Brownlee’s return to the national team was hastened by the fact that the banned substance he used was taken out-of-competition and unrelated to performance enhancement. This, along with the fact that he has not played a game since the gold-medal winning effort against Jordan, contributed to his earlier than expected return.
SBP president Al Panlilio and coach Tim Cone, as well as fans, welcomed Brownlee back to the team. His first game back will be in the first window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers on Feb. 22 against host Hong Kong and Feb. 25 versus Chinese Taipei at home.
“We’re elated that the consequences FIBA issued does not prevent Justin Brownlee from playing for Gilas in the upcoming window,” said Panlilio.
