Thirdy Ravena to go all-out for Gilas

Right after the nine-man Ateneo de Manila Univerisity Blue Eagles’ triumph over the San Beda Red Lions at the Ynares Sports Arena, Thirdy Ravena made the short trek to the Meralco Gym, Thursday evening.

Just a few days ago, Ravena – a 23 for 2023 Gilas Cadet – had been invited to join the elite division of the Philippine Men’s National Basketball Team for the final window of the 2019 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

“It’s a great honor na ma-lineup sa national team,” the 22-year-old expressed.

Last January 15, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas named the 14-man pool for the crucial window of Gilas. Supposedly, the federation originally wanted to unveil a 15-man pool that included the Ateneo Blue Eagle, but had to seek clearance from the school first.

The team made it clear that they wholeheartedly give the two-time UAAP Finals MVP to the country.

“We want them to be exposed as much as possible, especially with the national team. Learning curve yun eh. Mas gagaling sila doon,” said Blue Eagles manager Epok Quimpo.

“We somehow experienced it say nung Jones Cup. And it’s always a privilege to play for the national team.”

“Where there’s priority for the national team, it’s important that players can be available. We support that,” added head coach Tab Baldwin, himself a former Gilas tactician. “I don’t know if the decision has been made by Father [Jett Villarin – school president] because they will have to work the academic issues.

“But from a basketball standpoint, we support that. I’m happy for him.”

So far, Ravena’s transition to Gilas has been easy with TNT players Troy Rosario, Jayson Castro, and Roger Pogoy are there, since the Katropa and the Blue Eagles share the same facility in Katipunan.

The pool has been hit with numerous injuries, however. Given this, the likelihood of him being lined up against either Qatar (February 21) or Kazakhstan (February 24) is high. And it’s a responsibility he is taking to heart.

“I need to step up and gawin ang mga sinabi sa akin ni coach Yeng [Guiao] at the best that I can,” shared the second generation cager.

“It’s always the best feeling to represent the country. Masarap maglaro para sa bayan. Lahat kakampi mo, lahat susuporta sa ‘yo. It’s always a great honor to play for Filipinos around the world.”