MANILA – To avoid complications, NLEX Road Warriors will not let its rookie Kiefer Ravena play in the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup until FIBA sheds light on his 18-month suspension.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio said Road Warriors have informed him of their plan, with FIBA stating in its rules that the suspension covers “all leagues and activities.”
“Honestly, the rules are very clear that (the ban covers) all leagues and activities,” Panlilio said. “But we are seeking clarification from FIBA. In fact, we just released the letter on Monday so Geneva (FIBA headquarters) should receive it Monday, same day.”
FIBA rules state that any doping punishment imposed by the world basketball body covers not only FIBA-sanctioned leagues but all activities beyond its scope.
“Our prayer and clarification, since this is Kiefer’s livelihood, if he can be allowed to earn a living [sic],” Panlilio said.
Ravena “has suffered enough, he has been very honest in the process. He has been very candid. His behavior has been exemplary. He has shown integrity,” the SBP president said.
He added: “Talagang honest mistake. It’s something that, again like Kiefer said, in hindsight, lacking knowledge and checking what the supplements are, what this pre-workout drinks are.”
FIBA banned Ravena for 18 months after the latter tested positive for three ingredients in the World Anti-Doping Agency’s List of Prohibited Substances – rendering him ineligible to play from Feb. 25 this year to Aug. 24 next year.
The Ilonggo guard was not present during Road Warriors’ game against Blackwater Elite on Wednesday.
He was also pulled out last-minute from his much-anticipated homecoming game in the 2018 PBA All-Star Week’s Visayas leg in Iloilo City on Sunday.
With the development, Road Warriors head coach Yeng Guiao hinted on making trades to become competitive. NLEX is playing without Kevin Alas, who has a knee injury.
“Masyadong matagal iyong 18 months. We have to make changes,” Guiao told Fox Sports Philippines. “Not only did we lose two of our top guards, we also lost two of our best scorers in the squad.”
Guiao added: “We really have to make moves because masyadong matagal iyong hihintayin namin. We’re not saying we’re going to do it now. We will still compete and do the best from what we have while we plan our next move.”/PN
