Kiefer Ravena on signing with Japan B.League: 'I am proud to carry the flag'

Kiefer Ravena is excited to represent the Philippines anew as he enters the next chapter of his basketball career in the Japan Professional Basketball League.

Joining his younger brother Thirdy in the B. League, he signed with the Shiga Lakestars

In a Facebook post, Ravena said he hopes the fans will join him in his journey and asked for their continued support.

"I am proud to carry the flag and to say that I am a Filipino. I will continue to give glory to my countrymen and women in any way I can. Please continue to support me," he said.

He also expressed his gratitude to the Shiga Lakestars for giving him a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

"Thank you for the trust and belief that a Filipino can perform and play in such a prestigious league. Domo arigatou gozaimasu," he said.

Ravena also thanked the officials of the NLEX Road Warriors, his ballclub in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), for giving him their "blessing."

"The support you have given me all throughout my stay has given me nothing but joy and great memories. Our dream of winning a championship will always be there. I am and will always be proud of this family," he said.

In a separate statement, NLEX said that while it supports Ravena's "desire for personal advancement," he needs to follow the terms of his contract and the PBA rules.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial previously said Ravena cannot play in the B.League since he is still under contract with the Road Warriors.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/MGP, GMA News