CJ Perez embraces clutch role for Gilas Pilipinas without Brownlee

Gilas Pilipinas’ CJ Perez during a game vs Jordan in the Fiba World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers at Mall of Asia Arena. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

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MANILA, Philippines–Since his call-up to Gilas Pilipinas, Justin Brownlee has always played the role of “Mr. Clutch” for the Philippines.

When the Philippines found itself in overtime against Jordan in the second round of the Fiba World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, it needed someone to take on the mantle of savior with Brownlee out.

Enter CJ Perez.

“My coaches just trusted me. They kept telling me to attack the basket and drive to the paint,” he told reporters after their gritty 82-81 overtime win over Jordan at Mall of Asia Arena on Friday.

“When I drive, sometimes others are open and sometimes, I can shoot it.”

FOURTH QUARTER CJ

CJ Perez talks about taking over Gilas Pilipinas in the clutch vs. Jordan. | @MeloFuertesINQ

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After Jordan took a 66-64 lead with 3:57 left in the fourth quarter, Perez took matters into his own hands and scored the Philippines’ final six points to send the game into overtime tied at 72-all.

He also went on to sink four of Gilas’ 10 points in the extra period.

“When you’re in situations like those, sometimes you don’t even think about things,” he said. “But, I have my confidence given by my teammates because I was shooting well. I’m proud that my teammates are proud of me.”

The San Miguel Beer star knew when to attack but also when to make the timely plays.

With the score tied at 79, Perez drove the paint once more but this time, kicked it out for a wide-open Kevin Quiambao, who sank the dagger for the Philippines with 11.7 left in the game.

“Luckily, KQ was there, I saw him and he made the shot. He has so much confidence and I’m proud of him,” Perez said proudly.

In the end, the four-time PBA champion recorded 16 points, four rebounds and one very important assist.