While Kiefer Ravena served an 18-month punishment after testing positive for three banned substances, Alyssa Valdez was always right beside him.
Valdez even vowed to do one thing for Ravena once the ban had been lifted.
As she put it, “I promised also to watch his first-ever basketball game back.”
However, on a fateful Saturday evening, Ravena’s first competitive match in front of the public eye coincided with a crucial match for Valdez and her Cool Smashers.
Ravena is currently in Foshan, China for the FIBA World Cup. He suited up for Gilas Pilipinas as he, with his brothers-in-arms, went to battle against the formidable Italy squad.
Meanwhile, the Creamline skipper spearheaded her team in a marquee match-up with Choco Mucho at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Given the circumstances, Valdez was on a mission.
The five-time V-League MVP put up a triple-double performance of 25 points built on 21 attacks and two kill blocks. She also collected 13 excellent digs and 11 excellent receptions. Valdez even delivered the match-clinching blow that thwarted the Flying Titans’ comeback hopes.
After finishing the game in 115 minutes, Valdez, even from afar, showed her support for Ravena just in time. She entered the media room and watched Gilas’ valiant stand with five minutes remaining in regulation.
Unfortunately, Gilas suffered a severe beatdown. At one point in the game, Valdez even had her back turned as Ravena converted a triple.
Still, she’s beyond proud to see her loved one back on the playing field, representing the country with pride and honor.
“Panalo naman siya. Nakapaglaro na siya,” the proud daughter of Batangas bared.
“It’s a good showing also being just there sa FIBA, ‘di ba?”
