MANILA – Ilonggo Ferdinand “Thirdy” Ravena III had an impressive debut in the 2020-21 B.League as he split his first two matches with the San-En NeoPhoenix over the weekend.
The Iloilo City-native Ravena, who was the first Filipino to play as an import in the league, debuted with 13 points, two rebounds and two assists in the NeoPhoenix’s 83-82 win over Shimane Susanoo Magic on Saturday night.
The former Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles guard was instrumental in the fourth quarter after tallying eight of his total points to give the team a 77-69 advantage with over four minutes left.
Susanoo Magic, however, responded with a run to take an 82-81 edge on free throws by De’Mon Brooks. Hayato Kawashima answered back for the NeoPhoenix two free throws with three seconds left.
Ravena, however, cannot make it two-in-a-row as his squad suffered an 81-74 defeat at the hands of Magic on Sunday afternoon. The Ilonggo guard has solid 12 points, eight rebounds and one assist.
NeoPhoenix head coach Branislav Vicentic was impressed with Ravena’s composure in the first two games hoping the latter would adjust further as the games go by.
“He is one of our excellent players and you can see it with his talent. He knows almost everything,” Vicentic said. “We talk a lot and I feel that he can help our game positively and he’ll be the right player for us heading into December.”
Ravena, for his part, was delighted with his showing, but the three-time UAAP Finals Most Valuable Player awardee admitted that he still has lot to work on, particularly on his conditioning.
“I am thankful to the support of the Filipinos. Whatever it takes. If I have to drive, rebound, shoot, I’ll do it,” Ravena said./PN
