By NIKOLE JAVIER
Kiefer Ravena is extending his stay in Japan for the fourth consecutive year after signing with Yokohama B-Corsairs for the Japan B. League 2024-25 season, the team announced on Friday, June 14.
Ravena is the first among the six Filipino imports who entered free agency at the end of the recently concluded season to find a new home.
Among those in the list are his younger brother Thirdy Ravena, who’s coming off his best stint in the Japanese league in four years, Gilas big men Kai Sotto and AJ Edu, Matthew Right and Ray Parks Jr.
Sotto was the first Filipino import to play for Yokohama last season on a loan from the Hiroshima Dragonflies.
There, the 7-foot-3 center delivered the best season of his pro career in Japan after earning more playing opportunities.
Meanwhile, the 30-year-old guard parted ways with Shiga Lakes after a three-year partnership, becoming a free agent shortly after leading the squad to a B2 title last month, where he has also been a team captain for two seasons.
Shiga was relegated to the second tier Japanese league in 2022, but should be well on its way to a B1 return following the championship run.
For now, Ravena has another duty to fulfil as he is set to compete in the 43rd William Jones Cup with Strong Group alongside Ange Kouame, RJ Abarrientos and Rhenz Abando next month.
