MANILA, Philippines – A PBA championship remains elusive for resident Meralco import Allen Durham, but his fierce rival and tormentor is convinced he is bound to break through.
Barangay Ginebra import Justin Brownlee said Durham remains a force to be reckoned with even after the Gin Kings’ 3-0 sweep of the Bolts in the Governors’ Cup quarterfinals.
“I can’t say I feel bad because we’re competitors and that comes with the game. I would say his effort is definitely not a losing effort,” said Brownlee, who improved to 4-0 in playoff encounters with Durham.
“If he continues doing what he’s doing, I think at some point, he’s going to break through and be successful in this league and maybe win a championship.”
“Hopefully, it’s not against Ginebra,” Brownlee added with a chuckle.
The two met again in the playoffs after their fabled battles in the finals of the 2016, 2017, and 2019 Governors’ Cup, all of which Brownlee won as he captured three of his six titles with Ginebra at the expense of Durham and Meralco.
And just like in the past, Brownlee got the last laugh, steering the Gin Kings to an unprecedented sweep with series averages of 30.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.3 blocks.
But Durham did not go down without a fight, putting up 31.3 points, 13.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.7 steals as the Bolts came close to winning Game 2 and Game 3 only to fizzle out in the endgame.
“Allen has been tough. I’ve been saying this for years, he’s been tough. He’s been a nightmare matchup for anybody in this conference,” said Brownlee.
“Sometimes I’m speechless with the way he works and how he is effective for his team.”
For Brownlee, Durham has proven he is capable of winning a championship, just like he did when he helped the Ryukyu Golden Kings lift the Japan B. League crown in the 2023-2023 season, even earning Finals MVP honors.
“He’s been there and he knows what it takes. Obviously, he got the talent and the skills,” said Brownlee.
While Durham is nearing the twilight of his career at 36 years old, Brownlee expects him to be back for another tour of duty in the PBA.
“I could see him coming back. I’m sure Meralco or any team in the PBA would love to have him. I definitely see him coming back,” said Brownlee. – Rappler.com