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By Ivan Saldajeno
QUEZON CITY--The last time Ginebra was involved in game that featured the jersey retirement of one of its former stars, the team won on a go-ahead basket by its import.
On Sunday night, a similar instance happened.
Justin Brownlee nailed the game-winning shot as the Barangay downed the Alaska Aces, 103-102, in a special PBA Commissioner's Cup game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday night.
Brownlee completed a three-point play with 7.2 seconds left that eventually gave Ginebra the win in front of Eric Menk, whose number 30 jersey was officially retired at halftime.
The Barangay saw their lead as high as 13 gone as the Aces slowly overcame the deficit and even led by six, 101-95, with 3:08 remaining.
A five-point swing in 55 seconds drew Ginebra to within one, 101-100, before both teams went almost two minutes without a point.
Alaska finally scored as Chris Banchero made a split from the line with 19 seconds left, but it still kept the door open for Ginebra to even retake the lead.
Despite the Barangay having no timeout left, Brownlee once again showed why he is deadly in the clutch by making a layup and the ensuing free throw after the foul for the 103-102 lead.
The Aces had two chances to reclaim the lead, but Cory Jefferson airballed a long two and Jvee Casio's corner three at the buzzer only hit the iron.
Brownlee finished with 37 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, four blocks, and three steals for Ginebra, which won for the fifth straight time.
Jefferson had 25 points, 18 rebounds, three assists, and two steals for Alaska.
Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno
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