Cone remains cautious as JB returns

Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone is delighted that import Justin Brownlee seems to be getting the hang of playing despite a right thumb injury.

A part of his right hand wrapped in bandage, Brownlee made heads turn last Friday when he delivered enough blows that helped the Gin Kings level the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup Finals to 2-2 after 95-78 win.

Initially, it appeared that Brownlee was in danger of missing the entire series when he was pulled out of the game last Wednesday.

But based on his performance in Game Four, it looks like he is adjusting well.

Brownlee hardly missed a beat in Game 4 for the Kings after dropping a double-double game of 23 points and 12 rebounds.

“So it’s just a lot of ice and yeah, just trying to mentally prepare myself, you know to try to go through the game. Luckily, I had the support from the team, the whole coaching staff and everybody so I just wanted to go out there and be there for the team and just try to get a win,” Brownlee said.

“I wanted to be aggressive. I wanted to continue trying to play like I’ve been playing. I definitely had doubts as far as the tape. It’s a different feel.”

On the eve of the game, Brownlee began to feel a bit more comfy.

“But Thursday and before the game, I think I got the hang of it. I don’t want to jinx myself, but I kind of got a good feel for it now.”

Still, Cone will still be monitoring Brownlee closely to make sure he doesn’t hurt himself further.

After all, Brownlee is also set to play for Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Cup in Saudi Arabia from 5 to 17 August.

“Hopefully we can continue that into the next game and just hopefully we can continue to administer Justin and get him through the series,” Cone said.

“It’s not one of those injuries that’s going to get better over time. He’s probably going to need some surgery and so we’ll just try to administer it and do the best we can.”

So, is Brownlee going to pull his punches in Game Five?

Knowing his competitive spirit, that’s unlikely.