Ravena eyes SEAG glory

I’m very honored. It’s another chance to represent the country.

KIEFER Ravena guns for his fifth Southeast Asian Games gold medal.

More than the record fifth gold medal, Kiefer Ravena is looking forward to serving the country once more after he was included in the final roster of Gilas Pilipinas seeing action in the 30th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

The NLEX guard is a proud owner of four gold medals in the biennial meet as he was part of the champion squad in the last four editions.

“I’m very honored. It’s another chance to represent the country. I’m very thankful to the coaching staff and the Gilas Pilipinas program that I’m able to go back and play again for the national team especially it’ll happen here in the Philippines,” Ravena said.

“On that elusive fifth gold medal, at the start it was so far-fetched cause I’m not part of the pool but now I have a chance to redeem myself and be able to play again for the national team.”

The injury of ace guard Jayson Castro forced head coach Tim Cone to look for another playmaker and Ravena fits the bill.

The former Ateneo de Manila University standout said he’s also looking forward suiting up for the two-time grand slam mentor.

“I just have to grab it and make the most out of the opportunity that is in front of me. Make the most out of the fact that I’ll be under one of the greatest coaches,” Ravena said.

His stellar plays for the Road Warriors in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup put him in the spot to replace the veteran Castro.

And with the TNT KaTropa guard doubtful for the SEA Games scheduled from 30 November to 11 December, Ravena embraced the opportunity to wear the national colors anew after a forgettable stint in the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) World Cup in China.

“I was called up and I just stay ready for the opportunity like that,” said Ravena, who averaged 4.6 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists in the FIBA tournament.

Gilas will face Singapore in their opening assignment in the SEA Games on 4 December at the Mall of Asia Arena.