THIRDY BRINGS ACT TO JAPAN
Gilas Pilipinas young gun Thirdy Ravena is taking his act to the Japanese pro league.
Ravena, a three-time UAAP Finals MVP and champion, signed up with B.League Division I squad San-En NeoPhoenix as its “Asian import” for next season.
“The San-En NeoPhoenix announced that the team has signed shooting guard Thirdy Ravena from the Philippines for the 2020-2021 season,” the Aichi-based pro squad said in a statement.
The former Ateneo standout chose San-En after contemplating on offers from at least six B. League squads and interests in Italy, New Zealand and Australia.
With his Japan stint, the high-flying Ravena also effectively closed the door on applying for the PBA rookie draft for the second straight year. Skipping the draft for two consecutive seasons merits a ban from Asia’s first play-for-league but with the Ravena camp informing PBA commissioner Willie Marcial of the plan, he might get consideration from the board of governors.
“Wala namang problema sa atin yunbasta magpapaalam ng mahusay sa atin (I see no problem as long as they inform the
PBA properly),” said Marcial, who will present Ravena’s case to the board. “Kapag nakita natin na okay naman ang kontrata, talagang maganda ang pupuntahan nila, papayag naman ang board niyan sa tingin ko (If we see that they’re taking the right path and signed a good contract, I think the board will give its blessing),” he added. The Ateneo stalwart is the first player to sign based on the “Asian Player Quotas” as part of the B. League’s advocacy to enhance various Asian players and expand the business in the Asian market.