NO MATTER where they’re from—be it a quiet town in Europe, the neighborhood courts of Africa, or the streets of Manila—basketball players across the globe often share one common dream: to make it to the NBA.
It’s the highest level of the sport, the grand stage where legends are born. For countless young athletes, this dream fuels years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering belief that they might one day reach the league.
However, for those who don’t make it that far, meeting an NBA player can be just as meaningful. A handshake with someone they’ve admired from afar, watched on screen, and dreamed about meeting—it’s a moment that carries weight.
Even if brief, that encounter offers inspiration and a sense of fulfillment. It reminds them of why they love the game, and often, that single memory becomes something they hold onto forever.
A Moment to Remember
Kiefer Ravena recently lived out that dream, meeting NBA greats Michael Jordan, Luka Doncic, Carmelo Anthony, and more during a special event hosted by a major shoe brand in Athens, Greece.
Also in attendance were NBA champion Rip Hamilton, current stars like Zion Williamson, Paolo Banchero, Bam Adebayo, Rui Hachimura, Bruce Brown, and WNBA legend Maya Moore, a four-time champion.
For Ravena, it was a once-in-a-lifetime moment—but it was also a proud milestone for the Philippines. As the only Filipino athlete signed under the Jordan Brand, the experience resonated not only with him, but with the entire nation.
“Siyempre, very proud moment for me, personally, being part of the [Jordan] family. Isang experience na, of course, ‘di ko makakalimutan — kwentong talagang matatago ko habambuhay,” Ravena told a media.
The seasoned playmaker, fresh off signing a contract extension with the Yokohama B-Corsairs in the B.League, is hoping for more moments like this. Because once you’ve had a taste of greatness, you’ll always chase it.
“’Yon, overall it’s a great experience. Sobrang memorable talaga siya sa ‘kin. Alam ng mga taga-Jordan Brand ‘yon. Hopefully, magtuloy-tuloy,” he said.
Meanwhile, several posts have gone viral claiming that Ravena had a conversation with Jordan himself. While he did confirm speaking with “His Airness,” he chose not to share the details, saying it’s something he’d rather keep to himself.
“Tago ko na lang sa ‘kin ‘yon,” he answered when asked what he and the six-time NBA Champion talked about.
Making it to the NBA isn’t just a personal dream—it means carrying the hopes of an entire nation. Still, what Ravena has done is no different: chasing meaningful moments while proudly representing the flag.
