When De La Salle University’s lineup for the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Basketball Tournament was first revealed, many eyebrows raised at the absence of ‘Raven Cortez’ and the inclusion of a certain ‘Raven Gonzales.’
Now, nearly a month into the tournament, it’s clear that the 6-foot-7 center from De La Salle Zobel goes by the new surname of ‘Gonzales’.
He also wears jersey number six, which became available after Joaqui Manuel’s graduation at the end of last season.
For Gonzales, the name change honors the most important person in his life — his mother, Rona.
“The reason my surname changed lang is about my mom lang. I decided to take her last name na rin. She’s my hero and without her wala talagang Raven Gonzales,” said the Business Management student, who contributed 10 points and five rebounds during 14:20 minutes on the floor in La Salle’s 88-67 victory over University of Santo Tomas on Sunday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
When he was in high school, the La Salle community was hopeful he would make the jump from Zobel to Taft.
Now in his third season, he has firmly established himself in Topex Robinson’s rotation and is making the most of his playing time.
While his progress is undeniable, he is clear that he still has a long way to go to become the player he aspires to be.
“Siyempre masaya ako. Pero yun lang, for me, it all boils down to being ready lang and waiting for your name to be called lang. I think everyone did it naman. Lahat ng mga teammates ko magaganda yung laro and masaya,” said Gonzales.
“I think malayo pa ako dun for sure. There’s still more hard work to do. Marami pa akong pagdadaanan, pero I guess I’m just trying to be my best version lang and I’m always gonna go hard every game.”
With Gonzales on the team, La Salle has achieved a 5-1 record this year. However, their biggest test will come next Sunday in the form of a finals rematch against the University of the Philippines.
Still, the 21-year-old is confident that the Green Archers will maximize their week-long preparation.
“We have one week to prepare so we’re gonna do our best. We’re gonna recover after this game muna and go from there. We’re gonna prepare for UP,” he said.
