Kiefer Ravena. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/ Joaqui Flores
Funny how a simple conversation between gym buddies escalated to a partnership for flag and country.
That was how Kobe Paras came to be part of Chooks-Pilipinas 3×3 squad which will compete in the 2017 Fiba 3×3 World Cup in June.
“He was in our house and on our way to the gym when Anton (Altamirano) were discussing who has already committed,” shared Kiefer Ravena.
READ: Quiñahan joins Paras, Teng, Ravena in PH 3×3 squad
The two-time UAAP MVP broached the idea to the 19-year-old prodigy, who was vacationing in the country after transferring from Creighton to Cal State Northridge.
“It was only Jeron (Teng) and I who have stated our commitment and I told him, ‘Kobes, you’ll redshirt, right? Maybe you want to play for us?’ He said he’ll look at it and eventually got the green light,” he said.
Turning into some sort of an agent for the 3×3 crew, Ravena hoped to also get Raymar Jose onboard to infuse some hustle and energy, but the team eventually settled for JR Quiñahan after the former’s obligations with Cignal in the PBA D-League.
READ: Against bigger foes, PH team to bank on teamwork in Fiba 3×3 World Cup
Ravena, though, was still satisfied, saying that the NLEX big man can provide the same and more, particularly veteran smarts, for the young team.
“Kuya JR, fortunately, will bring us the same thing,” he said.
Seeing how talented the team is, Ravena knows that the one of the biggest concerns for the team is forming a strong bond which he believes shouldn’t be a problem under the guidance of coach Eric Altamirano.
“His presence is very important for us. He explained to us how the game is played and how we can mesh,” he said. “He just told us to enjoy this because this is a rare chance for us to be together. It’s not everyday that we can be in one team so we have to make the most out of it.”