Justin Brownlee, Kai Sotto, and Scottie Thompson in Gilas Pilipinas’ win against New Zealand in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers – MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA (Philippines) Justin Brownlee was expected to be a big hit in Gilas Pilipinas’ win over New Zealand in the second window of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
But instead of basking in the glory of another Brownlee classic, long-time import Ginebra chose to talk about someone else.
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Kai Sotto wowed the home crowd with an all-around game that impressed even Brownlee in the Gilas’ 93-89 win over the Tall Blacks on Thursday at the Mall of Asia Arena. surprised me.
Read: Kai Sotto puts on a great performance defending Gilas’ home court
After watching Sotto grow up close, Brownlee said he believed in Sotto and now he can get along well with the big boys in the major leagues.
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“I’ve said all along that, in my opinion, he feels like he’s good enough to play in the NBA,” said Brownlee, who played 37 minutes in the dub, with a big smile.
“Of course he has the height, size and skill, but he has developed so much and for me it’s really great to see a player like him with so much potential. .”
Sotto flexed his muscles against New Zealand, scoring a qualifying-best 19 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, along with two steals and two blocks, nearly recording a triple-double.
Read: Gilas Pilipinas beats New Zealand for the first time in FIBA
Sotto continued his upward trajectory after posting a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds in Gilas’ last game against Chinese Taipei.
Beyond the numbers, Sotto also contributes in intangible ways, like making the game easier for Gilas’ fellow swingmen.
Just ask Brownlee. He felt the game became easier after playing with Sotto on the hardwood.
“He shoots, great skill set, passes, does a lot of things really well and can do anything on the court. He’s 7-foot-4 and can do it all,” Brownlee said.
“He’s fun to play with and he definitely makes the game a lot easier for everyone.”
Brownlee had 26 points and 11 rebounds, as well as two steals and two blocks on defense, achieving his own double-double.
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The twin towers of Brownlee and Sotto will be looking to power Gilas once again in the second window of the qualifiers against Hong Kong at the same venue.
