Macau Black Bears’ Quentin Millora-Brown contests Gilas Pilipinas forward Justin Brownlee’s shot during a tune-up game at Araneta Coliseum.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—After being a firsthand witness to what Gilas Pilipinas could do as a collective unit, Quentin Millora-Brown is convinced the Philippines will make a good account of itself in the 2025 Fiba Asia Cup.
Millora-Brown, who suited up for the Macau Black Bears in a tune-up game against Gilas on Monday, said the Philippines would “do well” in the continental meet after a tremendous showing in front of a home crowd.
SCHEDULE: Gilas Pilipinas at 2025 Fiba Asia Cup
“They’re a well-coached team with so much experience and talent. I’m excited to see how they perform over there,” Millora-Brown told reporters after the Black Bears’ 103-98 loss to Gilas Pilipinas. “I think they’re going to do well.”
The former University of the Philippines big man felt the wrath of coach Tim Cone’s wards as he was limited to only six points and seven rebounds.
The UAAP Season 87 champion also failed to help the Black Bears contain Justin Brownlee, who exploded for 32 points and 15 rebounds.
Aside from the numbers in the stat sheet, Millora-Brown also had a tough time dealing with Gilas’ physicality and intensity. He even found himself on the bad end of an AJ Edu poster and a verbal spat with CJ Perez.
“If you play basketball long enough, those things are going to happen, especially if you play hard,” said the 6-foot-10 Millora-Brown.
READ: Gilas Pilipinas at 2025 Fiba Asia Cup: what to know
“If you play hard it’s going to get chippy. He (CJ Perez) came off a screen hard and a little bit too much but obviously, it’s all good nature between us. It’s just part of the game.”
That same intensity will propel Gilas to wins in the Asia Cup, according to Millora-Brown.
Gilas is 2-0 in tune-up games ahead of the Asia Cup after beating Jordan, 75-61, on Saturday.
The 24-year-old Millora-Brown had already expressed his intent to play for the Philippines, but his plans of representing the country hit a snag after Fiba didn’t classify him as a local.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.
The Filipino-American has since appealed his eligibility status to Fiba.