Kobe Paras and Thirdy Ravena are really good friends. Ever since they were kids, the two would hang out a lot.
But after UAAP Season 82, Paras never thought that he would be sharing the same court with Ravena. After all, the two went on their separate ways career-wise.
“The last time we played was in college,” recalled Paras.
The last time they faced each other was back on October 30, 2019 that saw Ateneo beat UP, 86-64.
“I really thought that was the last time we were gonna play against each other.“
After Season 82, Ravena turned professional but not in the Philippine Basketball Association. Instead, he would ply his craft in the B.League.
On the other hand, Paras was supposed to remain in UP for another season. However, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic changed his plans.
Last Summer, Paras, 24, decided to leave UP and head to the States. There, he was able to connect with Seigle Sports and Entertainment that led him to the B.League.
Exactly 710 days after their last meeting, the two good pals meet once more. This time in San-En.
“I’m just happy that I get to play against Thirdy. I’m just really happy that even here as pros, we got to play against each other.”
Unlike their last meeting, it was Paras who came out as victor as his 21-point outing powered Albirex to a 77-64 win over NeoPhoenix.
Most of the game, the two friends even guarded each other.
For Paras, he is just grateful to head coach Fujitaka Hiraoka for letting him play as a winger, which has been leading to good things for both himself and the team.
(C) B.League
“I’m grateful for my teammates and the Filipino fans,” he expressed.
“We have a great coaching staff. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to play my game.”
