Justin Brownlee of the Philippines in action against Australia in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, March 1, 2026 at the Mall of Asia Arena. FIBA Media
MANILA -- After being limited to four points against New Zealand, Justin Brownlee played more like his usual self against Australia in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Sunday.
But despite getting some of his magic back, Brownlee's 20 point performance was not enough to steer Gilas Pilipinas to victory over the Boomers.
The Gilas naturalized player tallied eight rebounds and seven assists in the 66-93 loss.
READ: Gilas still can’t crack Australia code, ends home stand winless
"It always feels good to get back into the rhythm, but unfortunately, the main goal tonight was to win. Whether I am in rhythm or not, the main goal is just to try to get the win," Brownlee told reporters after the match.
"Obviously, as a player, you want to try to get into rhythm and get going for your team," he added.
Despite the defeat to Australia, Gilas advances to the second round of the qualifiers after New Zealand's 99-67 win over Guam earlier in the day.
READ: Gilas advances to Round 2 of World Cup qualifiers after New Zealand dominates Guam
"We just have to regroup and just come out better next time," Brownlee said.
Instead of dwelling on the negatives, the Gilas mainstay said the team has gained a lot of valuable lessons from their matches against New Zealand and Australia.
"I think this window, it definitely gave us a lot of experience [in] playing teams like New Zealand and Australia. They give you that high level. These two are some of the best teams worldwide," Brownlee shared.
"I appreciate the experience just like for sure the whole team did and the coaching staff and the whole program. They appreciate the experience. Hopefully, we just got to be better from it," he said.
Gilas will have time to regroup and return to the drawing board, with the third window still four months away.
New Zealand will host the Philippines, which carries a 2-2 record, to open the third window on July 3.