Justin Brownlee delivered a historic performance, scoring a career-high 54 points to lead Barangay Ginebra to a 121-115 overtime victory over TNT on Wednesday night, putting the Gin Kings on the brink of winning the PBA Commissioner's Cup championship.
Brownlee, already known for his clutch play, was unstoppable throughout the game, hitting 14-of-19 from the field, including 9-of-13 from three-point range, and going 17-of-20 from the free-throw line. He also grabbed 10 rebounds and dished out 7 assists in a dominant all-around display.
The Gin Kings now hold a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven finals series, with Game 6 set for Friday. A win would secure Ginebra's second Commissioner's Cup title in three conferences.
TNT, which forced overtime after a late rally, was led by Rondae Hollis-Jefferson's 42 points, but the Tropang Giga could not contain Brownlee in the extra period. The Ginebra import scored 10 points in OT, including two crucial three-pointers, to seal the victory.
"I just wanted to be aggressive and help my team win," Brownlee said after the game. "It's a big win, but we still have work to do."
Ginebra coach Tim Cone praised his star player: "Justin was phenomenal. Every time we needed a basket, he delivered. That's why he's a champion."