Brownlee enjoyed witnessing Ginebra break into PH Cup semis

MANILA, Philippines – Four months ago, the locals of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel gleefully watched Justin Brownlee deliver them to their first title in 8 years with his series-clinching 3-pointer.

This time around, it was Brownlee’s turn to witness his old teammates pull themselves up into the 2017 PBA Philippine Cup semifinals.

“It feels great, they went out there and they gave it their all, played with great energy,” he said after Ginebra’s 108-97 victory over Alaska.

“Alaska is always a tough team, finishing that game, Ginebra showed great poise and really handled that game very well. I’m surprised about the rookie, he really impressed me a lot.”

Brownlee sat courtside and stood up to cheer for the Gin Kings along with the crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. He was flashed on the jumbotron early in the game and fans quickly recognized the hero of Ginebra’s 2016 Governors’ Cup championship. (WATCH: Justin Brownlee hits 3-pointer to clinch championship for Ginebra)

“A lot of people say I’m good luck to Ginebra, but I think it’s the other way around, where Ginebra is the good luck charm to me,” the former Ginebra import gushed.

“It was very fun watching those guys play, I’ve missed those guys a lot, especially playing with them,” he added.

Brownlee, who’s back in the Philippines to play for PH-Mighty Sports in a Dubai tournament this month, noted he was impressed by rookie Kevin Ferrer, who posted 15 points in the win.

“He’s impressive. I like his game a lot,” he said.

Ginebra booked the last semifinals ticket and set up a highly anticipated “Manila Clasico” best-of-7 affair with rivals Star Hotshots – a series Brownlee hopes he can witness again.

“I’m sure it’s gonna be a very exciting series and hopefully I could catch some of the games.”

Game 1 of this semis pairing begins on Thursday, February 9. – Rappler.com