DWIGHT RAMOS is taking on an even bigger role with more challenges and duties in his fourth season in the Japan B.League, as he prepares to lead as captain of Levanga Hokkaido for the 2024-2025 season.
Ramos, currently in his third season with Levanga, is the team’s captain, having proven his ability as a leader in previous seasons. His goal is to be the “glue guy” and keep his teammates in sync this season.
The Gilas Pilipinas star acknowledges that he feels a “little bit different load on his shoulders” as the team’s captain. He is, however, prepared to take on the challenge of leading the team.
“A little bit. It’s just talking more with the guys, trying to get everybody together, keeping everybody seeing each other during the game,” said Ramos during the B.League Season Tip-off Conference on Thursday.
“We’ve been working pretty much every day, working hard, building chemistry, of course. A lot of preseason games and we’re just going to keep getting better.”
Happy to be back
In May 2024, the 6-foot-4 captain signed a contract extension with Levanga. Ramos thanked his organization for making him feel “valued,” which was the primary reason he returned.
“I just love it here. The coaches, the staff, GM, everybody, they make me feel valued here and wanted so that’s pretty much all you can ask for, the players, the organization that believes in you,” he explained.
When asked about the lessons he learned from his four years in the league, Ramos stated that one of the most important things he was able to acclimate to was the league’s difficult schedule.
“I mean, I already know the schedule of the games, it’s always tough so I figured out how to take care of myself and be ready for the second game which is a big part of the league,” said Ramos.
“It’s still hard even when you’re adjusted. You know it’s coming, you just gotta be ready, it’s a lot of mental strength, mental toughness.”
The Gilas Pilipinas star, who played a key role in the national team’s FIBA World Cup and this year’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament, is eager to improve on last season’s 17-43 record.
