ACE guard Kiefer Ravena is the first to admit he misses the presence of roaring crowds at venues in the PBA. He is relishing the chance to feel that anew in Japan.
“It’s really nice to play in front of a lot of people. Of course, back home, we’re not that fortunate. We’ve been playing in a bubble for two conferences now,” Ravena said.
“So, it’s just so amazing to feel the support of the fans, and the Shiga Lakestars family out here,” he added.
The 6-foot NLEX star signed with the Lakestars as an Asian import in the B. League last June but was initially not allowed by the pro league to bring his act overseas.
After a change of heart from the PBA, Ravena was given the green light to suit up for the squad under some conditions.
In his first two games with the Lakestars, Ravena, 27, is averaging 15.5 points, 7.5 assists, and 2.0 rebounds.
He was good for 15.6 points, to go with 3.8 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 1.8 steals in four matches in the import-less tourney in Bacolor, Pampanga before his stint was cut short when he left the country for Japan.
Ravena is hoping to get the much-needed boost from their fans.
“We’re looking forward to playing away games and traveling and representing our team even though we’re playing in another home court,” he said.
“We’re fortunate enough to play our first six games out here. So, hopefully the Shiga fans could always be out there and support us.”
Shiga squares off with the Ibaraki Robots at home at the Ukaruchan Arena this weekend.
