Brownlee relishes fierce, ‘pleasant’ competitors vs June Mar

Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee and San Miguel’s June Mar Fajardo in the course of the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.web

MANILA, Philippines—Justin Brownlee and June Mar Fajardo confirmed their aggressive natures in Recreation 2 of the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals.

Brownlee and Fajardo clashing isn’t a brand new scene by all means vital. In spite of everything, each swingmen have been there for each their mom groups in nearly each vital recreation.

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And for Brownlee, the competitors in opposition to Fajardo is rarely straightforward.

“He’s nice. What’s it, six, seven, eight-time MVP? Eight? Oh my God. I misplaced rely,” stated the longtime Ginebra import in jest after absorbing a 131-125 loss in extra time by the hands of San Miguel Beer at Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.

SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals

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“There’s a purpose why he’s an eight-time PBA MVP so it’s at all times enjoyable going up in opposition to him… He’s an final competitor and also you by no means see him take performs off.”

Fajardo notched himself one other double-double with 23 factors and 21 rebounds with six assists and two blocks to steer the Beermen in tying the best-of-seven collection to 1 recreation a chunk.

Brownlee additionally did his personal factor for the Gin Kings,  finiushing with 39 factors–together with a key 4 pointer late in regulation–15 rebounds, seven assists, 4 steals and 4 blocks.

“Give him numerous credit score. He’s positively been main San Miguel since I got here to the PBA and even earlier than. I’m positive he’ll preserve main these guys,” stated Brownlee of Fajardo.

‘Pleasant competitors’

Ginebra import June Mar Fajardo in opposition to San Miguel star June Mar Fajardo in the course of the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals. –PBA IMAGES

They could be fierce opponents on the court docket within the PBA, however it’s the alternative exterior of it.

Each have performed collectively quite a few instances beneath coach Tim Cone to signify the Philippines and don the Gilas Pilipinas jersey.

“On the finish of the day, it’s a contest and once I’m Ginebra, I’m all in with Ginebra. I can say the identical factor for Gilas so taking part in in opposition to him and with him, it creates a bond. It’s a really particular bond we now have,” stated Brownlee.

“We gained previously, this 12 months we now have video games and that bond is at all times there however after we’re on the court docket taking part in for reverse groups, it’s nothing however good competitors,” he added.

When requested whether or not it was  it more durable to compete on the hardwood when you understand you’re dealing with somebody you think about your brother? Brownlee doesn’t assume so.

“Are you able to say pleasant competitors? Possibly not too pleasant however it’s simply competitors. He’s a competitor, so am I and we simply go on the market to compete.”