By REYNALD MAGALLON
The threat of going up against a slew of naturalized players in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games is hardly bothering Justin Brownlee who is relishing his first stint for the Philippines in the biennial meet.
Brownlee, who was a Gilas Pilipinas practice player back in 2019 SEA Games is savoring the experience being with the country’s top athletes.
“Definitely just taking it all in, enjoying the experience. just happy to be here representing the Philippines,” said Brownlee who also recalled meeting Tokyo Olympian Caloy Yulo.
“It’s unbelievable I doubted that this day would come when I would be representing the Philippines on the international stage. It’s just truly a blessing. Four years ago, I was excited just being in the practice and seeing all the guys and being able to play with the guys that I play against in the PBA,” he added.
“It’s just all around special, the way I love the Philippines, being here now, It’s just gonna be a great experience.”
Brownlee though is expected to have some sort of baptism of fire in his first stint in the SEA Games with all eyes now on Gilas’ bid of reclaiming the gold medal in men’s 5-on-5 tournament.
Adding even more challenge to that mission was the sudden emergence of naturalized players from other countries with host Cambodia expected to field three in Sayeed Pridgett, Darrin Dorsey and Brandon Peterson.
Indonesia, likewise, has three naturalized players led by Lester Prosper along with Anthony Beane and Dame Diane to anchor the team’s title retention bid while Thailand, also beefed up its lineup with Thai-foreigners with 6-foot-8 Martin Breunig joining Frederick Lish, Tyler Lamb and Moses Morgan.
“The good thing about the Philippines is they are always playing against imports or players from the US or whoever. I think that’s going to be an advantage as far as playing against them,” said Brownlee.
“We are used to playing with imports so I think it’s going to be an advantage. I can’t wait to go up against them,” said Brownlee.
