The Japan guys are not playing in the quadrennial meet.
Kiefer Ravena never refused the call of duty. The 29-year-old has served the national team since his teenage years and has accomplished a lot representing the Philippine flag. Just in case anybody forgets, Ravena's five straight SEA Games gold from 2011 to 2019 is the most for any Pinoy basketball player.
The Phenom is also among the Gilas players to have the second-most appearances during the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers.
Ravena was also tapped in the initial list of national team players to play in the upcoming Asian Games. Although, the veteran Gilas guard said he might not make it this time due to commitment in the Japan B.League. He has even yet to hold talks with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).
"I really don't know. Hindi pa ako nakaka-commit sa kanila, hindi pa ako nakakapagsabi ng kahit anong decision sa kanila regarding my situation whether I'll play or not. Pero by the looks of our schedule right now, I think I won't be able to play for the said Asian Games," Ravena said in an interview on One News' The Big Story.
"Actually, hindi pa kami nakakapag-usap pero I've already expressed my side nung before pa matapos 'yung [FIBA] World Cup na mahihirapan na ako maglaro sa Asian Games because conflict of schedule na talaga and I have to be here for my team."
Ravena is set to make a third run with the Shiga Lakes. The franchise is looking to turn things around following a dismal 14-43 win-loss record that led to the relegation of Shiga to the second division.
(GM)