Ravena told: Stay away from basketball for now
PBA chairman and POC president Ricky Vargas has advised Kiefer Ravena to stay away from the game in the meantime after both the national cage federation and the pro league have decided to abide by the FIBA ruling on his doping failure.
“If I were Kiefer, I won't risk it,” said Vargas in reaction to wild proposals that Ravena may be free to play in some leagues that are not under FIBA.
“Don't throw a line. Stay away from it. We don't want him to test the waters,” Vargas also said.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio, meanwhile, insists that Ravena won't be idle as his ball club and the national federation will help him embark on a mission to spread awareness on the substances banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
And that's what the POC and the SBP want FIBA sees in Ravena during his 18-month suspension.
“We'll document what Ravena would be doing and we'll continue to try down the road (to appeal the player's case),” said Panlilio.
“Di muna ngayon because there's a definitive answer on the clarification we sought. And in fairness to FIBA, the decision was well thought of, very clear and they observed due process,” Panlilio also said.
But practically the whole Philippine basketball community stands with Ravena as it was clear he failed the doping test by accident.
“NLEX has come up with a statement, affirmed by NLEX governor Ramoncito Fernandez that they're supporting Kiefer especially on the financial aspect,” said Panlilio. “Because for one, we will use him as ambassador to spread the word.” —