By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Kiefer Ravena is set to represent the Philippines in the 43rd William Jones Cup after signing with Strong Group Athletics.
The tournament will take place in Taipei, Taiwan, from July 13 to 21, 2024, featuring top basketball clubs in Asia including Strong Group, the PHL-based sports organization managed by Mr. Frank Lao and his son, Jacob.
Strong Group, managed by Frank Lao and his son Jacob, announced on May 14, 2024, that they received the call-up to represent the country in Taiwan. Following the confirmation, the management quickly assembled a strong roster.
Ravena joins the team after a successful season in Japan’s B. League, where he led Shiga to the Division II championship title.
During the campaign, Ravena averaged 10.51 points, 4.0 assists, and 2.59 rebounds per game as the team’s Asian player quota import.
With the B. League season concluded, Ravena will return to the Philippines to join Strong Group’s intensive training camp.
“It’s a great opportunity for me to showcase my skills in front of our kababayans again and contribute to the team’s success,” said Ravena.
Current Benilde head coach Charles Tiu and former Gilas Pilipinas mentor Rajko Toroman will lead Strong Group in the Jones Cup.
Jordan Heading, Gilas Pilipinas’ primary shooter and a previous member of the Strong Group team that competed in Dubai, has also committed to playing in the Jones Cup.
