Just like Toyama for Dwight Ramos, San-En has declared its all-out support for Thirdy Ravena and his campaign in the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
Ravena arrived in the country on Tuesday evening, fulfilling his commitment to Gilas Pilipinas.
Though apologetic of their late statement regarding the matter, the entire NeoPhoenix staff said that they have Ravena’s full blessing.
“We apologize for the delay in the official statement due to the time it took to confirm with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas,” read the statement.
“Not having Thirdy to start the second half of the B.League will be hard for the club but as a stance of the San-En NeoPhoenix, it is a great honor for our players to be selected in their national teams and the club will continue to support them.”
Ravena will miss San-En’s game against Shiga on February 26 and 27 at Hamamatsu Arena. He’ll also likely be absent for their back-to-back games against Tokyo on March 5 and 6 at Toyohashi City Gymnasium due to mandatory quarantine.
Photo from San-En NeoPhoenix
The NeoPhoenix is currently 4-27 in the standings.
For his part, Ravena is grateful for the support of the team, promising to come back stronger.
“I will do my best for the Philippine national team and come back at my best during the second half of the B.League,” said Ravena, who averages 12.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 29 games played so far.
“I appreciate all of your support.”
