Justin Brownlee leans on positive things after tough Gilas loss to Australia

It was mixed feelings for Justin Brownlee Sunday night, March 1.

While he finally got it going after a rare off game, Brownlee and Gilas Pilipinas bowed to Australia, 66-93, in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

“It always feels good to get into rhythm. But the main goal for tonight is to get a win,” said Brownlee at the end of the match at the Mall of Asia Arena.

“Obviously, individually, as a player, you want to be able to get a rhythm, and try to get going for the team. But it obviously wasn’t good enough.”

After being limited to four points against New Zealand, Brownlee led Gilas in scoring against the Boomers with 20 points on top of eight rebounds, seven assists, and a steal.

[RELATED: Gilas Pilipinas overwhelmed in 2nd half by Australia in FIBA World Cup qualifiers]

But that did little in the second half when Australia dominated the second half on the way to their fourth straight win in the qualifiers.

But as always, there’s something to gain in defeat, according to Brownlee.

“I think this window definitely gave us a lot of experience playing teams like New Zealand and Australia,” he said.

“It gives you that high level, some of the best teams worldwide. I appreciate the experience just like I'm sure the whole team and the coaching staff and the whole program. They appreciate the experience so hopefully we just gotta get better from it.”

Brownlee and Gilas convene again in July for the third window where they will visit the Tall Blacks and Australia.

“We just gotta regroup and just come out better and stronger next time,” he said.

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Like most sportswriters, Jan Ballesteros once dreamed of becoming a professional hooper. But he learned the hard way that it’s not for everyone.

He continues to be involved in the sport he loves, but this time as a member of the PBA Press Corps. Aside from primarily covering the PBA, he is also assigned to cover Gilas Pilipinas.