Kiefer Ravena’s Japan stint still unsure

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Kiefer Ravena recently created some buzz on social media after Japan B. League team Shiga Lakestars posted his photo and confirmed that he already signed and is ready to play for them.

However, the PBA was quick to intervene regarding Ravena’s decision stating that he is still under contract with the NLEX Road Warriors that is set to expire next year.

Under the Uniform Player’s Contract (UPC), Ravena is not allowed to accept professional stints other than his commitment with the Road Warriors or else, it would be a breach of contract.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial was the first to break his silence and said: “Sa ruling ng PBA, hindi pwede. Kasi sa UPC, may kontrata siya.”

A few months ago, NLEX head coach and Ravena’s mentor Yeng Guiao already revealed that his superstar is already planning to leave the country and play in Japan.

“He came to my house and then we talked about it. He had an offer. He had an offer in Japan. It was a really good offer and he was thinking about it. He told me about it and I said the first thing is I don’t want to be in the way of your personal career advancement, especially if that advancement was really something substantial,” said Guiao.

However, Ravena still hasn’t responded regarding the quick development after the Lakestars posted his photo with the caption “signed.”

The Road Warriors’ management is also yet to speak out if they will allow Ravena to fly to Japan and begin his campaign or request him to stay in the country and finish his contract until next year.