Thirdy Ravena ‘always ready’ to play for Gilas Pilipinas

FILE–Thirdy Ravena will be more than willing to represent the country again if he gets another call.–CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Thirdy Ravena’s successful return with Gilas Pilipinas at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games has the athletic guard wanting more.

During the B.League Final Week in Manila, Ravena said that should the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) call him up to represent the country, he won’t hesitate to say yes.

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“I’m always ready to play for my country, it’s never a question, anytime they ask me, I’ve always said yes,” he said at SM Megamall on Sunday.

Much of Ravena’s willingness to play for Gilas again came when he helped the Philippines win gold in last year’s SEA Games in Thailand.

Not only did playing for Gilas give him pride, but it also shook off whatever rust he had. His Gilas stint gave Ravena more than just the idea of representation. It gave him his confidence back.

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“It’s been a minute since I got to play a decent amount of minutes because back in Dubai, I didn’t play as much minutes as I did in Japan,” said Ravena, who was the B.League’s first Asian import.

“Having all those amazing players, old and new teammates plus an amazing coaching staff and management as well, it was a great experience especially after winning that gold.”