ONE would think prized guard Kiefer Ravena will have a hard time adjusting from playing in the PBA to the Japan B. League. That’s not the case.
Ravena is convinced the two pro leagues are not too far in terms of the level of play and competition.
“I think (that the level of play in the PBA and the B. League is) not too far in terms of competition. It’s just that you have to adjust to the speed and the physicality out here also,” Ravena said.
“They play differently out here, and you have to adjust to the referees and everybody,” he added.
The 6-foot NLEX star linked up with the Lakestars 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.
Under the agreement, Ravena will only play for one season in Japan. A corresponding fine will be meted on Ravena if he fails to follow the pact.
The PBA also fined the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned ballclub for allowing Ravena to sign with Shiga despite having a live three-year contract with the team and a Unified Players Contract (UPC) with the PBA. The amount of the fine was not divulged, however.
Ravena, 27, has averaged 15.5 points, 7.5 assists, and 2.0 rebounds in his first two games for Shiga.
“I think in terms of competition, Japan and the Philippines have always been neck-and-neck. I’m just so happy to be able to represent my league as well in the Philippines and showcase our worth as Filipino basketball players in a professional league in the PBA,” Ravena said.
“I think in terms of competition, both are there. It’s just the adjustment of playing internationally, and playing with new teammates, and playing against different teams.”
What gnaws at Ravena is the schedule in the B. League where teams play back-to-back matches.
