Kiefer Ravena’s long-awaited return is now official as he is set to leave with Gilas Pilipinas to compete in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Mighty Sports owner Caesar Wongchuking and his family hosted a simple send off dinner (despedida) at Chef Jessie in Rockwell for the 6-foot guard and former Mighty Sports player who is flying for Guangdong, China with his Gilas teammates in the coming days.
Ravena expressed relief in tasting the hard court after serving an 18-month suspension.
“I’m just happy to keep playing the sport that I love and representing my country to the highest and best of my abilities,” Ravena said.
Meanwhile, Wongchuking, who has known Ravena for a long time, expressed his full support for the 25-year-old cager.
“I have known Kiefer since his younger days. His talent, determination and heart for the game is unquestionable. I’m very glad that he is now back to represent our country in the world basketball stage,” said Wongchuking.
Also present in the dinner were Alyssa Valdez, Caesar’s wife Melissa, sons Angelo and Keith Wongchuking who is part of the Gilas Pilipinas Youth Under-16 pool.
Gilas is set to compete against Italy in a multi-game slate on 31 August 2019.