Kiefer ‘more recharged, more complete’ in return to basketball, says Alyssa

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Kiefer Ravena spent the past 18 months away from the sport he loved due to a Fiba suspension for violating the World Anti-Doping Agency’s regulations.

During that time that saw Ravena play little to no basketball at all, the 25-year-old kept himself busy with much of his time spent away from the sport was reconnecting with friends and family.

His longtime girlfriend and volleyball star Alyssa Valdez said she expects a “more complete” Ravena heading into the 2019 Fiba Basketball World Cup after he was selected as part of the 12-man lineup of Gilas Pilipinas.

“I guess in his return, after going through this, I think he’s more recharged and more complete,” said Valdez Sunday at Meralco Gym. “He’s known his friends better and the people who’s really loved him from the start.”

Valdez added that Ravena’s time away from basketball also had its benefit which is him having more time with the people closest to him.

“I think the blessing in disguise here is for the longest time, since he was a kid until college he was playing basketball and he was so focused at it and the time he spent with his family and friends was limited,” said Valdez.

And just as anyone who’s been with Ravena for the longest time, Valdez said she’s proud to once again see him suit up for Gilas.

“I’m just really happy to see him suit up,” said Valdez, who herself has played with the Philippine national women’s volleyball team several times. “We all know Kiefer is very strong and brave and he will really die for the Philippine flag.”