Thirdy Ravena says Gilas still top priority despite Japan stint

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

After revealing he will be signing with San-en NeoPhoenix in Japan’s B.League, Thirdy Ravena said that Gilas Pilipinas will still be his top priority.

In his short conversation with Thirdy Ravena, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al Panlilio said that Thirdy remains committed to the Gilas program.

“Thirdy has always expressed his willingness to play for the Philippines and he reiterated his commitment to playing for Gilas Pilipinas in a short conversation we had earlier,” Panlilio said.

Japan’s B.League on Wednesday announced Ravena’s signing by way of the “Asian Player Quotas” and will be the first Filipino player to be signed through this rule.

Panlilio also said that he will discuss things with the NeoPhoenix for Ravena’s availability during the FIBA windows to avoid conflict.

“Playing in Japan is a great opportunity for Thirdy to expand his horizons and to learn more basketball at an international level. This is his chance to grow as a basketball player and everything that he learns in Japan will be beneficial for Gilas as well,” Panlilio added.