Thirdy Ravena has sent a letter to the Philippine Basketball Association’s office, explaining that he won’t be able to join at least two more drafts.
The Ravena camp sent the letter to the PBA on Wednesday afternoon, he confirmed.
Ravena, 24, last played in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines back in October of 2019. He also completed his D-League residency during that year. Then he played for Gilas Pilipinas during the final window of the 2019 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers; and the first window of the 2021 Asia Cup Qualifiers.
However, Ravena skipped the 2020 and 2021 PBA Drafts as he signed with B.League club San-En NeoPhoenix.
The 6-foot-3 swingman is also expected to miss at least two more drafts after signing a multi-year contract with San-En.
However, the league’s office needed to receive an explanation that it will present to the board to avoid the player acquiring the “draft dodger” label.
The league has received Ravena’s letter which was addressed to both the office of the commissioner and to the board of governors.
“Sumulat sa akin at sa board natin headed by Boss Ricky [Vargas], ang sabi niya sa amin ay nagrenew siya sa Japan at may few years pa ulit siya sa Japan,” said the amiable commissioner.
“Sinabi rin niya na kaya hindi siya nakalaro gaano last season ay dahil sa injury. Gusto niya magimprove at okay naman daw siya sa Japan.”
Moreover, Marcial wishes him well in Japan, saying that the whole PBA is supporting him.
“Gusto ko lang sabihin sa kanya ay congratulations, happy tayo sa PBA for him, at we wish him well.”
Back in 2018, the league approved a rule that a prospect must enter the PBA draft two years after he finishes his college eligibility.
It implemented the rule to prevent potential high drafts from “choosing” the team that picks them, since it destroys the spirit of the draft.
