SBP keeping fingers crossed over Brownlee issue

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is keeping its fingers crossed that Gilas Pilipinas naturalized player Justin Brownlee will be cleared to play in the FIBA Asia Cup in August.

SBP president Al Panlilio shared that he’s hearing some positive news about Brownlee escaping any possible sanction following an adverse analytical finding on his urine sample during a leg of the Asia Cup qualifier last year.

The sports association head, however, would rather not speculate or assume until they get a formal announcement from FIBA.

“Let’s just wait for the official (report). But we’re hearing positively, so, let’s keep it at that,” Panlilio said Friday during the SBP national assembly held at the Meralco multi-purpose hall in Pasig City.

“But I’m pushing for (SBP executive director) Erika (Dy) to ask FIBA to officially give us a statement.”

Dy, in a separate interview, said no suspension was meted out.

“I know there are reports of adverse findings in his doping exam last November against New Zealand. We received that report. But just to clarify matters, there’s no suspension at this point in time,” she said.

Panlilio is optimistic that FIBA will reply positively and allow Brownlee to play in the Asia Cup, which is scheduled for 5 to 17 August in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

“I think there’s a big chance but I think the more pressing issue is his hand. He had surgery a few weeks ago, that’s the only thing: How soon can he recover from that? But we had assurances that it shouldn’t be an issue,” he said.

Gilas is bunched with Chinese Taipei, New Zealand and Iraq in Group D.