SBP confirms ‘adverse analytical finding’ as Justin Brownlee faces 2nd drug issue
MANILA, Philippines – Philippine basketball hero Justin Brownlee once again finds holes and stains on his flowing cape as the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) confirmed on Monday, March 31, that the 36-year-old icon is subject to a “notice of an adverse analytical finding” regarding a drug test.
This comes on the heels of a Spin.ph report that Brownlee allegedly tested positive for a recreational drug, putting the Ginebra resident import under scrutiny from basketball ruling body FIBA after previously testing positive for a substance linked to cannabis use in 2023.
“Brownlee is currently dealing with the situation aided by his US-based lawyers,” the SBP said in a brief statement.
“The SBP wishes to clarify that FIBA has not issued any official ruling as of date.”
Should he be found guilty anew, Brownlee could potentially face a fresh suspension lengthier than the three-month ban he served on the heels of Gilas Pilipinas’ historic Asian Games gold medal coup in China.
A lengthy Brownlee ban will also throw a huge wrench to the national team’s 2025 plans, as Gilas will already miss star center Kai Sotto likely for the year due to an ACL tear last January.
Brownlee is coming off a heartbreaking PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals series against TNT, where Ginebra bowed to the Tropang Giga in seven close games, capped with a thrilling overtime title clincher. – Rappler.com