Ravena tested anew

Days after his 18-month suspension slapped by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) was lifted, Gilas Pilipinas swingman Kiefer Ravena once again was selected to undergo a random drug test before their 2019 World Cup game against Italy today in Foshan, China.

I think once the results come, it’s something that can close one chapter of my career

And the NLEX Road Warrior sophomore was no longer surprised with the test.

“I somewhat expected it. Of course you know, I’m just fresh from what just had happened,” said the 25-year-old cager, referring to his suspension from the world governing body.

Last 24 June, Ravena used a banned substance as his pre-workout drink and was struck with an 18-month ban after he tested positive on a drug test conducted by FIBA right after Gilas 5’s World Cup qualifying match against Japan.

“It’s about being more aware of what I drink which of course included the water. What I usually drink now are hydrite and Gatorade. Other than that, I don’t even try and taste it,” he added.

Ravena received the random drug test invitation during their second practice in Foshan when a FIBA officer handed a paper to Gilas trainer Dexter Aseron. And Ravena’s name was written on it, along with Gilas center June Mar Fajardo.

“I think once the results come, it’s something that can close one chapter of my career. So that’s one thing that I’m really looking forward to once this finishes,” Ravena said.

“We worked hard all throughout the training camps that we had, and we’re really looking forward to playing in front of Foshan right now.”