FILE — Thirdy Ravena during a Gilas Practice. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines’ roster for the 2023 Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers remains in doubt but Thirdy Ravena is always ready to suit up for the country if needed.
Ravena is in Japan for his professional duties with San-En in the B.League but he remained committed to play for the national team, which will play in the November window of the Asian Qualifiers.
“There hasn’t been any conversation, so far, for the November window, but you know me I’m always game to represent the country,” said Ravena in a virtual press conference for his documentary Thirdy Ravena: Local Hero.
Ravena last played for Gilas in the King Abdullah Cup in Jordan with the tournament serving as a warm-up for the 2022 Fiba Asia Cup.
Although he’s currently in Japan, Ravena said that the NeoPhoenix does not prevent him from playing in international tournaments for the Philippines. In fact, the team encourages its players to represent their respective countries.
The Philippines is in Group A along with New Zealand, Korea, and India.
Gilas Pilipinas’ first games of the Asian Qualifiers will be against Korea on November 25 and 28 with the venue yet to be decided.
“NeoPhoenix is adamant about players representing their countries as well because it’s a very big thing. As basketball players, that’s really the main goal,” said Ravena. “So hopefully, if we get the call up and everything goes well, you know, I’ll be able to represent the country.”