Naturalized player Justin Brownlee is thankful for the love and support from the Filipino fans but calling him as a hero is something he never expected.

Brownlee, 35, who served a three-month suspension after testing positive in his doping test, made his appearance to the public for the first time and expressed his appreciation to everyone who supported him.

“It’s humbling, I never thought someone will look at me as a hero,” Brownlee said on Friday, Feb. 9, as he watched Game 4 of the finals collision between San Miguel and Magnolia in the 2023- ‘24 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

“I just go out there, try my hardest, things like that happen. It’s kind of a funny feeling but I definitely embrace it and enjoy it,” he added.

The 6-foot-6 talisman couldn’t help himself but to be flattered as he has done something to influence the Filipinos in his second home.

“It’s something that I can cherish. Somebody calling you a hero definitely makes you feel you accomplished something bigger than life. It feels great to be called a hero and is also humbling,” he continued.

“There’s nothing that makes me happier than seeing all the Filipinos happy; all the fans, teammates and coaches,” he added.

Brownlee bannered Gilas Pilipinas in the 19th Hangzhou Asian Games where it captured the gold medal after 61-year drought.