Thirdy Ravena and San-en Neophoenix executives during an online press conference on Friday. SCREENGRAB FROM BLEAGUE FACEBOOK
MANILA, Philippines—Expectations are high for Thirdy Ravena, who is set to play in the top flight Japanese BLeague in the 2020-21 season.
The three-time UAAP champion and Finals MVP signed with San-en NeoPhoenix to become the B.League’s first Asian import and his club’s chief executive Kenjiro Hongo expects him to make an immediate impact this season.
“We were trying to find a great player, and we finally met Thirdy and decided to sign with him,” said Hongo. “Thirdy is the best player in his country and signing him means a lot to me. As a member of the Phoenix, he is a key player. He will be a key player this season.”
“I’m very proud of that, and I’m looking forward to showing him in the B. League,” Hongo added.
Joining NeoPhoenix was also a big step for Ravena, who was already considered as a potential top pick in the PBA.
The B.League introduced the Asian player quotas in 2016, allowing teams to sign players from Asian countries.
“We are really proud of having him to our organization. We are using Asia player quotas and Thirdy is the fit to be here,” said Kage.
Ravena, at 6-foot-3, was usually utilized as a point forward within Ateneo’s system and Hongo believes the high-energy wing can play as the team’s lead guard in the season.
“As a member of the NeoPhoenix, he will be a key player for this season. His play is very powerful and speedy. It’s fun to see. He can play as a point guard. I’m sure he will dominate the game,” said Hongo.