Ravena stays focused, vows to keep in shape during 18-month ban

Kiefer Ravena reduced to being a spectator. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Kiefer Ravena is no stranger to coming through in the biggest of games and most pressure-packed situations throughout his young yet decorated basketball career.

And while his 18-month suspension from Fiba presents a different kind of challenge that is bigger than basketball, it’s all the same adversity waiting to be conquered by the steely Ravena.

One of the hardest parts for Ravena is being forced to be away from the game he loves.

“It’s all in the mind and it’s how I’ll be able to rise above it. It’s tough but I need to overcome it and do what I need to do,” Ravena said.

The suspension keeps Ravena from engaging in basketball-related activities but he vows it won’t deter him from staying in game shape.

“Even though, I’m not playing I have to find my own ways on how to keep in shape because you’ll never know if Fiba decided to lift my suspension and I wasn’t able to stay in shape that could hurt my career,” he said. “So I’m taking care of my body everyday and just being ready for whatever.”

Ravena is still hoping to get the green light from Fiba to allow him to suit up for his PBA team NLEX and still practice with Gilas Pilipinas, which faces rival Chinese Taipei on the road on June 29 and powerhouse Australia at home on July 2 in the third window of the Fiba World Cup Asian qualifiers.

The 24-year-old Ravena, clad in street clothes, was at courtside at Araneta Coliseum to show his full support to the Road Warriors, who escaped the Blackwater Elite, 93-89.

“We won so I’m happy I was able to watch the team play. I miss being out there with them especially in games like that,” he said.

“I’m happy for the team. I’m still part of one family, I’m still part of the NLEX Road Warriors and I may not be out there, but I’ll be with them every step of the way just as they are with me every step of the way.”