PBA Controversy: Ginebra best back-up option for Brownlee is?

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Ginebra’s Import Dilemma: Why Ange Kouame Would Have Been the Right Choice

With Justin Brownlee suffering a dislocated thumb in Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Barangay Ginebra scrambled to find a backup plan in case their legendary import couldn’t continue. Two names surfaced as potential replacements: Ange Kouame and Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson.

Ultimately, Ginebra stuck with Brownlee, and he delivered a vintage performance. However, had they been forced to pick a replacement, Ange Kouame would have been the better choice—and it’s not even close.

The Two Options: Kouame vs. Hollis-Jefferson

1. Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson – The older brother of TNT star Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Rahlir was a stopgap import for TNT during the Commissioner’s Cup when Rondae got injured. He has pro experience, but his talent level is nowhere near that of his younger brother. More importantly, trusting the sibling of the #1 player of TNT to play his hardest for Ginebra in the Finals is a massive gamble.

Adding to the issue, TNT still holds Rahlir’s rights, meaning Ginebra would have needed his release—something the Tropang Giga would never allow in the middle of a Finals series. That alone makes this option nearly impossible.

2. Ange Kouame – A naturalized Filipino, Kouame has already proven himself on big stages, playing for Ateneo, Gilas Pilipinas, and in overseas competitions. His elite shot-blocking, rebounding, and defensive versatility would have made him a perfect emergency replacement for Brownlee.

While there might have been political hurdles due to Kouame’s ties to the MVP Group (Ateneo and Gilas both being supported by Manny V. Pangilinan), the situation still made far more sense than bringing in Rahlir.

Why Kouame Was the Logical Choice

  1. A Reliable and Proven Big Man – Ginebra lacked size against TNT’s frontcourt. Kouame would have provided rim protection, rebounding, and inside presence that could have neutralized TNT’s interior attack.

  2. Familiarity with the Philippine System – Unlike Rahlir, who has limited experience in the PBA, Kouame has spent years playing in the country and understands the style of play. He wouldn’t have needed much time to adjust.

  3. No Loyalty Issues – Again, expecting Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson to go all out against the team his brother is trying to lead to a championship is borderline delusional. Kouame, on the other hand, has no personal conflicts of interest.

Ginebra’s Tough Call

In the end, Ginebra dodged a bullet by not forcing Brownlee to sit out. But if they had to replace him, Ange Kouame was clearly the better choice over Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson. If a similar situation arises in the future, Ginebra should remember this lesson and make the right move.

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