The Gin Kings showcased a balanced and disciplined offensive attack, anchored by resident import Justin Brownlee, who delivered yet another standout performance with a game-high 41 points. Brownlee’s scoring brilliance set the tone from the opening tip, consistently keeping Ginebra in control of the tempo while forcing their Finals opponents to adjust defensively throughout the contest.
Supporting Brownlee’s offensive explosion were key contributions from Stephen Holt, who added 23 points, and rookie guard RJ Abarrientos, who chipped in 15 points in a poised and energetic performance on the big stage. The trio’s combined effort helped sustain Ginebra’s offensive pressure and ensured that the team maintained momentum at critical stretches of the game.
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While Brownlee’s on-court dominance continues to define Ginebra’s Finals campaign, his journey to becoming one of the PBA’s most impactful imports has been shaped by a long and unconventional basketball career that nearly saw him establish himself in the NBA.
Before becoming a cornerstone of the Gin Kings’ championship success, Brownlee had a brief stint in the United States professional basketball system, including a stint with the New York Knicks organization ahead of the 2013–14 NBA season. He was signed by the franchise and participated in team activities and preparations, but ultimately did not see regular-season action after suffering a setback during the preseason.
“They signed me, but unfortunately it was like a non-guaranteed contract. I was signed and then I unfortunately had an injury. So the team cut me. So I did the media day and did all those things. I was going to suit up for preseason, but unfortunately I had an ankle injury. I broke my ankle. A bone in my ankle,” Brownlee said.
Best Player of the Game: Justin Brownlee 41 PTS, 7 REB, 7 AST, 3 STL pic.twitter.com/HrqZwUtVZy
— Barangay Ginebra San Miguel (@brgyginebraphl) June 7, 2026
Despite the disappointment of that early setback, Brownlee recalled the experience as a valuable learning opportunity, particularly the chance to be surrounded by established NBA talent and coaching staff during his time with the Knicks organization.
“Carmelo Anthony was there for sure. You had Raymond Felton, Ron Artest, Amare Stoudemire was there. I think he was injured maybe. JR Smith, I think, was there. Iman Shumpert. Coach Mike Woodson was cool. He was a very hard, tough coach. He was definitely hard on the players, very tough, very defensive minded, but really a good coach,” he added.
Now a veteran at 38 years old, Brownlee has built a legacy far beyond that early NBA experience. He has become one of the most decorated and influential imports in PBA history, playing a central role in Barangay Ginebra’s sustained success over multiple championship runs.
In a recent media interaction, Brownlee also reflected on his personal NBA fandom during his younger years, revealing a strong admiration for the Los Angeles Lakers during the Kobe Bryant era.
“To be honest, I don’t really have a team now. When Kobe Bryant was with the Los Angeles Lakers, that was my favorite team. But now, I guess I’m just a bandwagon fan. Whoever’s doing good or whoever’s in the Finals. I think they (Knicks) will. I think a lot of people were picking the San Antonio Spurs, but I think behind Jalen Brunson, I think they can get the job done,” Brownlee continued.
Beyond the nostalgia and reflections on his basketball journey, Brownlee remains firmly focused on the present as he continues to lead Ginebra’s championship pursuit. With the series now tilted in favor of the Gin Kings, the veteran import is chasing what could be another defining achievement in his storied career.
At 38, Brownlee is aiming to capture his seventh PBA championship with Barangay Ginebra, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful imports to ever play in the league. However, with the Finals still far from decided, he and the Gin Kings know that maintaining focus will be critical as the series shifts back into action.
Ginebra now carries a 2-1 advantage heading into a pivotal Game 4 on Wednesday, June 10, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where another high-stakes battle is expected as both teams continue their pursuit of the Commissioner’s Cup crown.
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