By MARK REY MONTEJO
Justin Brownlee is already thankful for the love and support of all Filipino fans but calling him as a hero is something he never expected.
Brownlee, 35, who served a three-month suspension after testing positive in his doping test right after the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, made his appearance to the public for the first time and expressed his appreciation to anyone who supported him.
“It’s humbling, I never thought someone will look at me as a hero,” Brownlee said on Friday, Feb. 9, as he watched Game 4 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals between San Miguel and Magnolia.
“I just go out there, try my hardest, things like that happen. It’s kind of a funny feeling but I definitely embrace it and enjoy it,” he added.
The 6-foot-6 naturalized player, however, stressed that he’s no bigger than basketball, and all he wants is to make his avid followers very happy.
“It’s something that I can cherish. Somebody calling you a hero definitely makes you feel you accomplished something bigger than life. It feels great to be called a hero and is also humbling,” he continued.
“There’s nothing that makes me happier than seeing all the Filipinos happy; all the fans, teammates and coaches,” he added.
Brownlee played a key role in Gilas Asian Games conquest none more vital than the country’s historic victory against China in the semis – the sweetest of them all.
And they ended the country’s long agonizing wait – 61 years long – after beating the Rondae Hollis-Jefferson-led Jordan in the finals despite having manpower woes – not mention the little time to prepare against Asia’s top guns.
The Ginebra star was tested positive for a substance after undergoing a surgery to remove bone spurs in his foot last year.
With Brownlee getting a clearance to suit up anew for Gilas, he is more than thrilled to be part of the Philippine team that is out to secure a ticket to the Paris Olympics and in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers later this month.
