MANILA – Ilonggo Kiefer Ravena is set to bolster the Strong Group Athletics-Pilipinas team that will compete in the 43rd William Jones Cup scheduled from July 13 to 21, 2024, in Taipei, Taiwan.
Ravena, who recently signed a contract with Yokohama B-Corsairs in Japan B.League, said he is excited to once again represent the country after becoming a fixture for Gilas Pilipinas before.
“I’m really excited to be part of the Strong Group and play in the Jones Cup,” said Ravena. “It’s a great opportunity for me to showcase my skills in front of our kababayans again and contribute to the team’s success.”
“Syempre, gusto ko talaga maging part ng team na ito. This is a chance for redemption, and I’m looking forward to giving my best effort for the fans and for our country,” he added.
The former Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles star recently led Shiga Lakes to Japan B.League Division 2 championship. He averaged 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.1 block for the Lakes last season.
SGA head coach Charles Tiu, for his part, said he is looking forward to coaching Ravena again following their partnership before for the Mighty Sports-Philippines during the 2016 Merlion Cup and the 2017 Dubai International Basketball Championship.
“I’ve always been a big fan of Kiefer’s game and IQ. He’s one of my favorite players of all time. I’ve been wanting to get him on one of my squads again for a long time, and I’m happy it worked out this time,” said Tiu.
“He always loves representing the country, and when I called him, he accepted the offer to play again without hesitation. He just needs to rest a little as he just won a championship in Japan,” he added.
Among Ravena’s teammates at SGA-Pilipinas are Rhenz Abando, Jordan Heading, Rhon Jay Abarrientos, DJ Fenner, Jonathan Manalili, Tony Ynot, Allen Liwag, Caelan Tiongson, Geo Chiu, and Dave Ildefonso.
Serving as their reinforcements are naturalized center Angelo Kouame, Chris McCullough, and Tajuan Agee./PN
