Tim Cone Keeps the Door Open for Justin Brownlee's Return

The PBA Season 50 Governors' Cup elimination round enters its final two game days this week, and Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone is still holding out hope that import Justin Brownlee could suit up again this conference.

Speaking after the Gin Kings' much-needed 106-89 rout of the Phoenix Fuel Masters on Sunday night at the Ynares Center, Cone declined to write off Brownlee. He said the import is still fighting his way back and that there is some hope he could return around the end of the month, even if it is only to be around the team. Cone added that Brownlee remains a key figure for both Gilas and Ginebra.

Whether Brownlee will actually play for Ginebra is still uncertain, and Cone did not address that question directly.

Two conditions must be met before Brownlee can take the floor. First, he needs medical clearance. Second, Ginebra must get past its final elimination-round game against Blackwater this Friday.

The 38-year-old is still recovering from multiple injuries to his hamstring and knee. Cone also recently told senators at a Senate committee hearing into the national team's poor showing at the Asian Games that Brownlee is dealing with a heart condition.

Cone stressed how much the organization owes Brownlee, saying the import has done a great deal for him as a coach. He pointed to the seven PBA championships Brownlee has helped the league's most popular franchise win since the 2016 Governors' Cup.

For now, Cone is content with Jordan Murphy, who is handling the import role for Ginebra. Cone compared the situation to the 1970s Stephen Stills song 'Love the One You're With,' saying the team has to make the most of the player it has. He added that the focus is on locking in and building around Murphy.

Ginebra, currently 4-5, is chasing the fourth and final playoff spot and will face Blackwater on Friday.