Brownlee’s participation in Asian Games in limbo

Sports

EXACTLY a week before Gilas Pilipinas starts its campaign in the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, it remains unclear if Justin Brownlee will be able to suit up.

Gilas Pilipinas flew to South Korea to play two friendlies without Brownlee.

And with its first assignment in the Asiad just around the corner, Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone revealed that the team has yet to get a word from Brownlee.

The prolific naturalized Filipino player is still in the United States recovering from hamstring and knee injuries. Those injuries prevented Brownlee from playing for Gilas in the recent fourth window of the World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

Gunning for a second straight crown, Gilas will start its campaign against Bahrain on Sept. 11.

Led by Robert Bolick, a total of 11 players have been listed for the Asian Games lineup.

Cone left one slot reserved for Brownlee should the resident Barangay Ginebra import decide to suit up.

If Brownlee will not be able to play, Cone said Gilas is ready to compete with just 11 players.(CCM)