Justin Brownlee could not be any happier to finally see his naturalization process get going which could soon formalize his inclusion into Gilas Pilipinas.
The beloved Ginebra import admitted feeling nervous when he appeared before the House of Representatives earlier this week, but is nonetheless honored as his bid of becoming a Filipino passed the first reading.
“I was a bit nervous just meeting the members of the House of Representatives. Things like that,” said the 34-year-old, who wore a Barong Tagalog during his visit. “Very eventful. Very exciting for sure, It’s just a great atmosphere.
“A lot of important people came for me, and I just really appreciate it. I feel grateful and blessed to be in this position, to be able to get the naturalization process forward. Hopefully, everything goes smoothly the rest of the way.”
Kings head coach Tim Cone is mighty proud as well of Brownlee, once again vouching for his resident import that he’ll be a ‘terrific representative.’
“I think he’s just a terrific representative of the country — in terms of personality, in terms of work ethic,” he said. “He’s loved by the fans and there’s a reason why. It’s not just because he wins, it’s because the whole, total package.
“They love him. And I think that when he goes out and plays against international teams, he will represent us extremely well,” added Cone.
Brownlee has long been vocal about his desire of becoming naturalized one day as he’s fallen in love with the country where he’s tasted much success.
Despite all the championships, the accolades, and everything in between, the St. John’s product is in no way stopping soon. Friday night — shortly after attending the Congress — saw him etch his name in the PBA’s history books.
Brownlee became the first import to tally 300 career steals, doing so in their 98-84 victory over Blackwater in the Commissioner’s Cup.
He ended up with four steals in a performance that also saw him register 17 points, seven rebounds, and three assists to lead their balanced attack.
Of course, he’s honored by the milestone — which he achieved on the same night Cone notched his 1,000th win — but Brownlee will be happier if they’d be able to cap off the week with a win against TNT on Sunday in a rivalry affair.
“It’s been a great week, especially topping it off with a win (tonight). Big plus. Got another game on Sunday,” he said. “Hopefully we can cap it off Sunday.”
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