Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Thirdy Ravena believes his stint with Mighty Sports Philippines in Dubai gives him an edge in his future endeavors with Gilas Pilipinas.
“Representing Mighty is a big step for me because it’s kind of like being in the pros on an international level,” he said.
“You see all the players you’re with, the professionalism that they have? It’s an invaluable thing that we’ve experienced (as a young athlete),” Ravena added.
Ravena decided to skip last year’s PBA draft to focus on his development and future stints with Gilas.
He told the Inquirer in a previous interview that he had received offers from Australia and New Zealand, but is keen on exploring his options in Japan and other Asian clubs.
“I think the biggest takeaway is professionalism,” he said. “It’s unlike with Ateneo whenever we go out of the country, there are a bunch of rules.”
“(With Mighty) nobody is going to tell you what you should do and not do. For example, whenever we’re off, would you rather save your body or go around [town]?”
“It’s the little things. It may not seem a lot but they together, they make a big difference in being a pro,” he added.
Ravena said, “it’s the little things that will define your professional career.”
A cinch to make the final roster, Ravena could cash in on those learnings when Gilas plunges into action for the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 qualifiers beginning Feb. 20.