SBP says Justin Brownlee receives notice of 'adverse analytical finding' but no FIBA ruling yet

The SBP essentially confirmed that Justin Brownlee tested positive for a prohibited substance for the second time in his career. PBA Images (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas confirmed on Monday that Justin Brownlee received a notice about an "adverse analytical finding".

The development came a day after Spin.PH first broke out that the Ginebra and Gilas Pilipinas forward was said to have tested positive again for a prohibited substance.

An adverse analytical finding is a result given by a World Anti-Doping Agency-accredited laboratory telling someone that traces of a prohibited substance can be seen in their sample.

Being a repeat offense, Brownlee, who was slapped with a three-month ban in 2023 right after Gilas' Asian Games championship, could be facing a lengthier sanction that could further affect his availability for the FIBA Asia Cup this August.

The recovery timeline for the dislocated thumb he suffered during the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals already made him questionable for the FIBA Asia Cup.

"Brownlee is currently dealing with the situation aided by his US-based lawyers," the SBP said in a statement.

A person privy of the situation told Dugout Philippines that Brownlee is still in the Philippines likely to devote his recovery from his broken hand here.

The SBP also clarified that FIBA has yet to announce a ruling regarding Brownlee's fate.

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