The country finally got a glimpse of Justin Brownlee Jr.’s game.
During the 2026 NBTC-Manila Live 14-and-under division, Brownlee, alongside fellow second-generation cagers Braedon Gupilan and Jace Devance, dazzled, leading Fil-Am Nation to a dominant 101-81 win over San Pablo City-based Blue Steel.
His father, Justin Brownlee Sr., revealed that he and his son are already working on securing a Philippine passport to make Brownlee Jr. eligible for Gilas Pilipinas.
It also helps that the young Brownlee loves playing in the Philippines.
“He’s getting the experience of being overseas and being here in the Philippines. It’s something he probably doesn’t realize yet, but these are some of the best times of his childhood,” said the 37-year-old Brownlee.
“You know, a lot of kids don’t get that opportunity. So it’s a blessing to see. I just hope he keeps taking advantage of it, gaining as much knowledge and experience as he can.”
At just 14, Brownlee Jr. is already 6-foot-2 and still growing—taller than his father was at the same age. According to Brownlee Sr., his son is also more athletic.
“I hope so. To be honest, at his age, I think he’s physically more advanced than I was,” Brownlee said.
“I was already dunking at 14, but I wasn’t doing some of the dunks he can do. He’s a little bigger than I was at that age. Physically, I think he has an edge.”
Of course, Brownlee Sr.’s ultimate vision for his son is a Division I college career and, eventually, the NBA.
But if that path doesn’t materialize, he hopes to see his son play in the PBA, ideally wearing a Ginebra jersey one day.
“That would be great. You know, his dreams are like any other young kid who plays basketball—he wants to make it to the NBA. But just like me, if it doesn’t work out, playing in the PBA would be another dream come true for both of us,” said Brownlee.
“Maybe. Let’s see how his career unfolds. We’ll see.”
