THE Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is keeping its fingers crossed that Justin Brownlee will be able to play for Gilas Pilipinas in the coming FIBA Asia Cup.

Sources told SPIN.ph that no suspension has been handed out by Fiba for the 'adverse analytical finding' on Brownlee's urine sample after an Asia Cup qualifier last year.

However, the SBP is careful not to speculate on the matter.

SBP pesident Al S. Panlilio admitted hearing positive signs about Brownlee being allowed by the world basketball federation to compete in the Aug. 5-17 tournament in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

But until a formal announcement is made by FIBA, the top SBP official said he prefers to hear it straight from the world body.

PHOTO: Mark Cristino

"Unless we officially hear (from FIBA) what we're hearing about it, then there's none (yet)," said Panlilio.

"But I'm pushing for [SBP executive director] Erika (Dy) to ask FIBA to officially give us a statement."

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