The PBA does not want to set a bad precedent by allowing Kiefer Ravena to take his talents to Japan while having a live contract with NLEX.
Chairman Ricky Vargas pointed out as much, as the league’s Board of Governors keeps firm on its stance. The 27-year-old should honor his pact with the Road Warriors instead of moving to Shiga in the B.LEAGUE.
“It’s going to be a difficult preceden[t] not only for us the PBA but as well as for FIBA — FIBA is also very strict about adhering to contracts — and SBP (Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas),” he said in a virtual presser Saturday.
“And it is such big precedence even in amateur sports, where the movement of players are subject to the rules of the league. When we talk about UAAP and NCAA, they even have sit-out periods,” furthered Vargas, who also serves as the team governor of TNT Tropang Giga.
“That’s the consequence of making a handshake.”
Ravena has been in the headlines since Wednesday. The B.LEAGUE announced that the 27-year-old has signed up to play for the Lakestars for the 2021-22 season, which begins in October.
The PBA was quick to denounce the move, though. Meanwhile, the board remains firm in its stance as it held a special meeting Saturday.
Vargas said that a thorough discussion among the members took place. In the end, they found it tough to come up with the decision.
“It was a discussion. It was not a one-minute decision,” said the 69-year-old sportsman.
“And the board, with all its wisdom, we looked at all possible scenarios and all the risks of this scenario; and came up with this decision that it is best that we strictly follow the policy of not breaking contracts as we felt that there were more negatives if we allow such to happen.”
Vargas understands the fans’ stance on the matter. He hopes that they would all understand the league as well.
“I understand where the fans are coming from. Hopefully Kiefer will stay with us, mapapanood nila maglaro si Kiefer sa PBA. And we’re doing all we can to have a conference in the PBA. And we’re still on track for two conferences,” he said.
“Sa mga fans, alam namin talagang gusto nila, gusto rin namin. Pero may kontrata tayong sinusunod,” said Commissioner Willie Marcial, on the other hand.
“Hindi natin puwedeng palampasin ‘yon.”
