Ravena brothers Kiefer, Thirdy face ‘test’ as they reunite at Gilas

Brothers Kiefer and Thirdy Ravena. INQUIRER PHOTO/TRISTAN TAMAYO

MANILA, Philippines—It took nearly half a decade before brothers Kiefer and Thirdy Ravena became teammates once again.

But while they share a close bond that is made closer by basketball, Kiefer admits that playing together again with his younger brother will still need some getting used to.

“It’s been a while, to be honest, and we haven’t really played together except for pick-up games and it’s going to be a test, hopefully we can find a way and I could adjust to his type of play,” said Kiefer in Filipino after Gilas Pilipinas’ Thursday at Meralco Gym.

“I just want him to play hard and see him play like how he did during his college days and now being part of the national team. There could be adjustments needed on both parts and we’re not thinking of who’s taking the last shot. It’s how we play inside the court while we’re together,” he added.

The two only played for one season together in Ateneo and when Kiefer—who won two UAAP MVPs—left, Thirdy became his own man and led the Blue Eagles to three straight titles from Season 80 to 82 that came with three finals MVPs.

Thirdy said that even though he has the permission from Kiefer, the captain of Gilas, to play on his own style, he won’t deviate from the system head coach Mark Dickel out in place.

“He’s the captain and first off I will perform my role and not deviate from the system,” said Thirdy. “What I’m going to do is stick to the system and stick to what needs to be done.”

“I will play my game while also sticking to the parameters of the system,” added Thirdy.

The brothers’ reunion was also special for their parents Bong and Mozzy.

“I’m really happy especially for my parents who have waited a long time for this to happen and finally it did and it’s with the national team,” said Thirdy. “It’s going to be great representing the country with my brother.”