IT came at the worst possible time.
Ginebra is now bracing for the worst after star import Justin Brownlee suffered what appeared to be a dislocated right thumb injury in Game 3, making the Gilas Pilipinas naturalized cager doubtful for the fourth tiff of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals.
The 6-foot-5 Brownlee was trying to go for a loose ball on the hardwood off TNT forward Calvin Oftana at the 6:42 mark of the third quarter.
Brownlee writhed in pain and left the PhilSports Arena for good as Ginebra yielded an 85-87 loss and a 1-2 deficit in the title battle.
“Definitely, it’s a big concern. Si Justin, he provides a lot of stuff for us not only on offense but also on defense. A part of our system revolves around Justin,” Kings lead assistant coach Richard Del Rosario said. “We had a taste of playing without him here in the second half.
“But again, it’s going to be tougher because TNT will also adjust,” he added.
Game 4 is set tonight at 7:30 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Del Rosario admitted Brownlee is uncertain to suit up as Ginebra seeks to forge a 2-2 all count in the series—or if the Kings fall anew, they will stare at a 1-3 disadvantage and on the brink of another failed title bid.
“We don’t know if Justin’s going to play in Game 4 or not. We’re still hoping that he can play,” Del Rosario said.
“Warrior naman ito si Justin. Basta’t kaya niya, kaunting sakit lang iyan, maglalaro iyan. We’re just waiting, and, hopefully, we get good news.”
Brownlee, 35, had 19 points, four rebounds and six assists before the incident that forced him to head to the Kings’ dugout and the hospital.
Del Rosario said they are summoning the team’s fabled mantra—never say die.
“We’re still hoping for the best,” he said. “If it’s dislocated, then hopefully we can, ano lang natin, sana walang bali.”
The horde of Ginebra fans held their breaths when Brownlee left the Pasig-based venue. They will again wait in Antipolo today with one wishful sight—Brownlee to play.
