Thirdy Ravena back in Gilas’ 19-man lineup for FIBA Asia

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

One of Gilas Pilipinas’ most versatile skippers will be making a comeback for the upcoming 2021 FIBA Asia Cup.

Thirdy Ravena, who just finished his first season with the San-En NeoPhoenix in the Japan B. League, was included by Gilas’ coaching staff as part of their 19-man pool that will undergo bubble training in Laguna.

With the prestigious basketball tournament already starting this August, program director Tab Baldwin is looking to call up some needed reinforcements to revamp their lineup.

Ravena was a part of the pioneer 24-man roster the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) organized last year and was one of their leaders who were composed mostly of young collegiate stars and high school prospects.

Aside from Ravena, also making their return into the roster are Allyn Bulanadi, Kemark Carino, Dave Ildefonso, Matt Nieto, Tzaddy Rangel, Rey Suerte, and Jaydee Tungcab.

Holdovers from the past pool who competed in the first leg of the tournament are Dwight Ramos, Angelo Kouame, Isaac Go, RJ Abarrientos, Justine Baltazar, SJ Belangel, Jordan Heading, William Navarro, Mike Nieto, Geo Chiu, and Carl Tamayo.

“So far, that is the list of players that we have identified. We are open to adding when the situation calls for it. We are open,” said SBP special assistant to the president Ryan Gregorio.