THIRDY Ravena, the pioneer player who led the flock of overseas players in Japan’s B.League, received the award for the Impressive Asia Player of the Year at the B.League Awards Show last Friday.
The high-flying athletic guard continues to soar higher with each passing season, earning him the distinction of becoming the first athlete to receive such an honor.
Ravena set a career high with 12.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.0 steals a game in his fourth season with the San-En NeoPhoenix, while shooting 52 percent from the field.
Despite their outstanding season, Ravena and San-En were swept in the quarterfinals by the eventual B.League champions, the Hiroshima Dragonflies, Kai Sotto’s former team, in a best-of-three playoff series.
The three-time UAAP MVP and three-time Ateneo Blue Eagles winner took to social media to thank everyone who has backed him. Most importantly, his team created possibilities for him.
“Thank you @b.league_official. From being the first non-Japanese asian in the league to receiving this award, it’s definitely a full-circle moment for me,” says the product of the Tab Baldwin-led Ateneo Blue Eagles.
“I’d also like to thank my family and friends for supporting me all throughout my life, @neophoenix_official for the trust all these years.”
Ravena did not forget to thank everyone who stuck with him all throughout the process of him playing abroad. Including the famous basketball skills trainer of TrueFocus Basketball, coach Jolo Tamayo.
Photo Courtesy: @3rd_e | Instagram
“My partner in Japan @jolotamayo who works out with me everyday after practice, our boosters and sponsors for your overwhelming support, and The Man Above for making this all happen. This award is for all of you!”
Meanwhile, Ravena ended his message with an advice to all ballers who are aspiring to be an overseas player. “Not everyone has to believe in you, you just gotta believe in yourself!” he said.
What’s next for our kababayans?
Ravena, like several other overseas players, left his squad last week. With his performance with NeoPhoenix, he is expected to receive offers from other organizations.
Along with him are Kai Sotto (Yokohama B-Corsairs), Matthew Wright (Kyoto Hannryz), AJ Edu (Toyama Grouses), and his brother, Kiefer Ravena (Shiga Lakes), who led his team to the B2 championship.
Meanwhile, Ray Parks is still talking with the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins about a contract extension. Carl Tamayo of the Ryukyu Kings is also looking into other possible opportunities, both in Korea and in Japan.
Although these players’ contracts have expired, they remain hopeful that they may receive a fresh offer from other teams. Filipino overseas players continue to raise the flag high and represent their country in extraordinary ways.
