Thirdy Ravena signs with Japan team San-en Neophoenix

MANILA, Philippines, June 25 ------ After an impressive collegiate career at Ateneo de Manila University, Thirdy Ravena is now headed to Japan to play professional basketball. The 23-year-old Ravena has signed with San-En Neophoenix of Japan's B.League. The club competes in the Central Conference of the league's first division. Neophoenix made the announcement on Wednesday, with a news conference with Ravena scheduled for Friday.

Ravena was included in the roster via the league's "Asian Special Slot" rules, which allows teams to sign Asian imports. According to Neophoenix's statement, Ravena is the first player signed to the league using the "Asian Special Slot" rule. The rule, which was implemented for the first time this season, is meant to "enhance competitive abilities by matching with various Asian players in daily games, and to expand business in the Asian market."

Ravena helped the Blue Eagles win three consecutive UAAP men's basketball titles, each time winning Finals MVP honors. He earned "Mr. Basketball" honors from the Philippine Sportswriters Association in 2019, and was given the Guidon-Moro Lorenzo Sportsman of the Year award by Ateneo as well.

He revealed that he was in talks to play in Japan earlier this year, with hopes of getting there by August as the B.League's new season starts in October. San-En Neophoenix had a 5-36 record in the previous season.

Source: news.abs-cbn.com/sports