RHJ, JB to extend rivalry?

MANILA, Philippines — The rivalry between TNT’s Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Barangay Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee may extend to the PBA Commissioner’s Cup starting Nov. 27. If they return, it’ll be their third conference playing against each other after the 2022-23 Governors’ Cup and the ongoing Governors’ Cup.

PBA vice chairman and Ginebra representative to the Board of Governors Alfrancis Chua said it depends on Brownlee whether he’ll play or not. There has been little rest for Brownlee since playing in Indonesia before checking in for his 11th PBA conference and he’ll suit up for Gilas in the coming FIBA Asia Cup qualifying window against New Zealand and Hong Kong late this month.

Ginebra head coach Tim Cone said Brownlee remains the big difference. “He always finds ways to contribute despite being guarded by an elite NBA defender in RHJ,” said Cone. “That’s what makes Justin special. He has an incredible will to win and always is the difference.” Cone’s assistant Richard del Rosario confirmed no discussions yet on Ginebra’s import for the Commissioner’s Cup where there will be no height restriction for reinforcements and Hong Kong Eastern will play as a guest team. “I haven’t really talked to coach Tim about the next conference but we usually stick with JB even with taller imports,” he said. “I’m sure coach Tim will decide on that soon.”

TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa said it’s likely RHJ will be the Tropa’s import in the Commissioner’s Cup. “Big chance he stays,” said Lastimosa, “but I’m on the lookout for someone bigger so if it’s just 6-8, we’d rather bring RHJ back.”