Ravena return fires up SGA bid

Strong Group Athletics (SGA) is thrilled to have Kiefer Ravena back in the roster after missing the first three games of the 44th William Jones Cup.

SGA coach Charles Tiu said having the 31-year-old playmaker gives them a lot of options on offense, putting them in a solid position to become the first Filipino team to win back-to-back titles in the prestigious invitational tournament.

With Ravena around, SGA crushed Rising Stars of Australia, 91-75, last Thursday at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium in New Taipei City.

“Glad to have Kiefer back, who is my extension on the court,” said Tiu, lauding Ravena not just for his skills but for his basketball IQ and resilience to bang bodies against bigger, taller foes.

“One of the smartest guys I’ve coached definitely. Makes things easier.”

Ravena, who missed the squad’s first three games due to a prior commitment in Greece, finished with nine points, two rebounds and two assists to support import Andre Roberson, who finished with yet another solid performance of 16 points, 12 rebounds, six assists and a steal.

Ian Miller was also impressive, finishing with 12 points, six assists, and a steal while Tajuan Agee chipped in 12 markers and 11 boards after returning from injury.

Ange Kouame added 11 points, six rebounds, and a steal while Dave Ildefonso contributed 10 points, four rebounds and two assists.

Tiu, who has won three Jones Cup titles in 2016, 2019, and 2024, liked how they played offensively against the Australians after relying on their defense in their first three games.

“This was our best offensive game of the tournament,” Tiu said.

“Guys played well — another game where multiple guys scored in double digits. Balanced scoring for us, which is what our team is about.”

SGA is competing against Chinese Taipei-B at press time as it pursues its fifth straight win of the tournament.

A win over the Taiwanese squad will set up a collision course with Bahrain, the only other undefeated team, on Friday at 3 p.m. for a possible title match.