Justin Brownlee is hoping to run it back with Meralco in the East Asia Super League should the opportunity arise in the future.
The three-time PBA Best Import is open for a reunion as he’s eyeing redemption after the Bolts bowed out of the 2025-26 competition, marking the third time in a row that the club missed the regional tilt’s playoffs.
“I definitely hope to get the chance to help again,” he said on the heels of their 88-79 defeat to Ryukyu at the SMART Araneta Coliseum, Wednesday night.
In an unlikely partnership between modern-day rivals in Asia’s pioneering pro league, Brownlee joined Meralco back in September of last year and was designated as a naturalized player for the team’s EASL campaign.
He wouldn’t make his debut until December, but the wait was worth it. Brownlee helped the Bolts pip the Macau Black Bears, 93-91, in Ilagan, Isabela, after displaying his all-around brilliance with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists.
But it was unfortunate that his second game with the MVP Group-owned franchise proved to be his last, as they fell short against the Golden Kings.
Making it worse for the 37-year-old winger was his subpar showing in the virtual knockout game. Although he had 12 points, ‘JB’ shot 3-for-13 from the floor — including a 2-of-7 mark from deep — as he couldn’t get into his usual flow.
That’s why he’s more than willing to link up with Meralco in the EASL, motivated to do better now that he’s gotten his feet wet in this league.
“I don’t think I played too well today. But I hope I get another opportunity. I really enjoyed the EASL, and I definitely enjoyed playing with Meralco,” said Brownlee, who will rejoin Ginebra in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.
The feeling is mutual for the Bolts, who are also down for another EASL stint should they get the chance from their mother league.
“We’ve also been good soldiers,” said head coach Luigi Trillo. “We know that we have to send the champions — the first runner-up and the champion, right? The one year, it was really us; the other two, we’ve been nominated.
“We’re very grateful for the opportunity. So, tingnan natin. Hopefully. If there are other PBA teams that will be invited, we’ll wish them well. But if we come back, we’re always ready to represent not only Meralco but the country as well.”
#WATCH: If given a chance, Justin Brownlee would like to don Meralco’s colors once more… but just in the #EASL#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/UIyxn9Du5d
📹 @justinebacnis /Tiebreaker Times pic.twitter.com/gMdNlZ4s4K
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) February 11, 2026
