With Gilas Pilipinas out to make a strong impression as the country co-hosts the 2023 FIBA World Cup this August, Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) board chairman Ricky Vargas suggested that the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) appeal the case of Justin Brownlee to be considered a local player before the world's governing body for basketball.

Brownlee officially got his Filipino citizenship on January 16, played his first two games as a naturalized player for Gilas Pilipinas during the sixth and last window for the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in Bocaue, Bulacan.