Ravena on the roster for game against Qatar

By Adrian Stewart Co

Ferdinand ‘Thirdy’ Ravena of Ateneo de Manila University will make his debut with the Philippine national men’s basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, when they take on Qatar in the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers Friday morning (PHT) in Doha, Qatar.

“We are investing in the next generation of players,” said Gilas head coach Joseller ‘Yeng’ Guiao. “It’s a chance for him, an opportunity to improve, [and] an opportunity for him to prepare.”

The Iloilo City native was added to the squad after Rain or Shine Elasto Painters center Raymond Almazan suffered an injury.

Gilas are currently fourth place in Group F, which means qualification is incumbent on how they compare to the fourth place team in Group E, Lebanon. The Philippines is currently trialing with a 5-5 record, while their Lebanese counterparts hold a 6-4 record. Their upcoming games against Qatar and Kazakhstan are must-wins to clinch qualification./ASC, WDJ