With their backs against the wall, Barangay Ginebra turned to their leader Justin Brownlee, who defied the odds by playing through a dislocated right thumb to power his team to a 95-78 victory over TNT Tropang Giga in Game 4 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals Friday night, March 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

The win evened the best-of-seven series at 2-2, preventing Ginebra from falling into a 1-3 hole.

Brownlee’s warrior mentality

After suffering a hand injury in Game 3, Brownlee was initially a game-time decision. However, not only did he suit up, but he dominated, finishing with 23 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, and two blocks in over 45 minutes on the floor.

“I didn’t think he was going to play, and then what does he do? He gets Player of the Game honors,” said Ginebra head coach Tim Cone. “He’s such a warrior.”

The team even considered Gilas Pilipinas naturalized player Ange Kouame as a possible replacement, but Brownlee insisted he could play.

Ginebra’s supporting cast steps up

Aside from Brownlee’s heroics, Jamie Malonzo delivered a game-high 24 points, with 10 coming in the fourth quarter, where Ginebra broke the game wide open with a 23-12 run.

Japeth Aguilar had an 18-point, 8-rebound performance, while Stephen Holt (12 points) and Scottie Thompson (9 points, 9 rebounds) provided crucial support.

“We surrounded Justin with great performances, and that’s what got the job done,” added Cone.

TNT struggles despite strong start

TNT kept the game close early but faltered in the fourth quarter. Calvin Oftana (17 points) and RR Pogoy (16 points) tried to carry the scoring load, while Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, fresh off winning his third Best Import award, struggled with just 14 points and 12 rebounds.

What’s next?

With the series now tied, both teams will look to gain the upper hand in Game 5, set for Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

“It’s anyone’s series now,” said Cone. “We just have to be ready to battle again.”