He goes by many names “ The Blue Mamba, The Phenom, The Kid" but underneath it all, remains a kid that, in spite, of the all the hype and fanfare that has surrounded him since his high school days in Ateneo, has stayed true to his roots and the values that his parents has inculcated in him.
This is Kiefer Isaac Ravena and for all intents and purposes, he just might be the future of Philippine basketball.
Fresh off a successful showing in the UAAP last year where he defied expectations and proved that he was indeed worthy of all the hype, a fact, that was further solidified by his selection by the league as its Rookie of the Year. Add to that his role in Ateneoā€™s annexing of a fourth straight title, and one would say that it was very good year for the 18-year old youngster.
But true to form, the son of former PBA star Bong Ravena and former volleyball ace, Mozzy, has fuelled his hunger and desire for higher heights by coming into this summer season, ready to become a better teammate, a better leader and an overall better player, which just might spell success for an Ateneo squad teeming with talent and depth.
"Goal ko muna is to prepare and brace myself for a tougher season. Prepare physically, mentally and emotionally better because not only players are gunning for me but they want to beat us as a team. They don't want that 'five-peat' to happen so we have this really huge target on our backs. I just want to improve my game and every day, strive to work hard",¯ said Ravena of his goals heading to this season.
Basketball may come easy for Ravena but that did not happen overnight nor is it so because of complacency or laziness, but rather, the skill stemmed from a lifetime of hard work and dedication to his craft that borders on genius and madness. Even now, he has identified his weaknesses and as you read this, is already working double hard to instead, make those his strengths.
"I have to work on my physical build because defenders are going to be more aggressive and physical with me this year. Then, I have to improve my speed and my shooting to extend the defense for my teammates",¯ methodically narrated Ravena.
Superstars in any sport often come off as aloof, alone in their spot atop of the world and recluse in their pursuit of excellence. Ravena though, is the exception and never the rule as he more often than not, returns the credit to his teammates for whatever praises that are thrown at him.
"At first, I struggled with the adjustment of the game itself, specifically the physical aspect of it which I didn't experience much of during high school. But my teammates helped me adjust quickly. They trained me how to play in the UAAP. If it wasn't for them, I wouldn't have been able to prepare myself well and give it 110%",¯ added Ravena.
This writer saw with his own eyes how Ravena gamely gave back to his fans at the National High School Championships at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City. With kids all over the country crowding to get a glimpse of the young star, Ravena gave in to each picture and autograph request. No questions asked. No complaints afterwards.
"Well, if it weren't for them, I wouldn't be in the position that I'm in right now. I just want to give them back everything. Kids spend their baon to go to the Araneta to watch the games and support the team and when we meet outside, they want to take pictures with us and to see them smile is a blessing. It feels overwhelming and it's an honor",¯ explained Ravena.
Still, let us remind you that in spite of his status as the country's most promising basketball player, Ravena is still 18-years old and he commonly does what 18-year olds are supposed to do. Have fun, go to clubs, play video games. And when asked what he would be if he weren't a basketball player, his answer opened my eyes as they would yours.
"Probably a dancer. Coach, pwede rin pero outside of the basketball court, gusto ko maging dancer. Mahilig ako sumayaw", said Ravena with a hearty laugh.
To say that the future is bright for this precocious young man would be an understatement. But as many expect Ravena to be in the PBA soon, he has other plans in mind, bigger plans on an even bigger stage.
"I can't really say how long I'll be in Ateneo but I'm open to joining colleges in the United States and perhaps play in the NCAA. I'm watching those people play right now and hopefully, someday I can join them. I just want to keep on reaching for the stars."
Jonas Rey N. Panerio
iSTORYA.NET League of Writers
Sports Correspondent
Life/Entertainment/Sports/Motoring
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The Future of Philippine Basketball is Here!
Published on 04-26-2012 10:10 AM
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