Kiefer Ravena remains committed to Gilas Pilipinas despite Japan contract, assures brother Thirdy

Kiefer Ravena could be on his way to Japan soon, but he would never turn his back on the flag.

Ravena's brother Thirdy told GMA News Online that the 27-year-old Kiefer will surely keep his commitment to the national team even after signing a deal to suit up for the Shiga Lakestars in the Japan B.League.

“I’m sure every player would always want to play for the Philippines and that’s the same for him (Kiefer),” said Thirdy, who was thrilled about the possibility of playing against his older brother for the first time.

“Playing for the national team is the highest form of basketball and it’s something I’m sure he would not decline if ever he gets invited.”

Kiefer is a Gilas Pilipinas mainstay. 

The 6-foot second-generation baller has been with the nationals since 2009 when he became part of that year’s FIBA Asia Under-16 squad that finished 4th and the 2010 FIBA Asia Under-18 team that settled for fifth place.

The son of TNT assistant coach Bong Ravena also has a flawless gold medal streak in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games after helping the nationals win the last five editions of the biennial meet, including the 2019 SEA Games the Philippines hosted.

Kiefer was part of the country’s gold medal teams for the 2015 SEABA Championship as well as the 2010 SEABA Under-18 Championship.

Recently, Kiefer was among the six PBA players invited last January to beef up Gilas Pilipinas in its preparation for the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.

However, SBP had decided to go all-cadet to give way to the league’s buildup for Season 46.

“My brother, as we all know, has been passionate for the flag and I know he will continue to do that despite playing in Japan,” said Thirdy, who currently reinforces San-en NeoPhoenix.

“Gilas will always be included in his plans.”

—JMB, GMA News