Photo from Thirdy Ravena’s Instagram
MANILA, Philippines—Over 200 Filipinos watched the San-En Neophoenix vs Kyoto Hannaryz match in the Japan B.League on Sunday, much to Thirdy Ravena and Matthew Wright’s delight.
Ravena, who also celebrated her 26th birthday this weekend, and San-En defeated Kyoto, 73-65, at the Kyoto Gymnasium, which was attended by several Filipino Workers. -Battery abroad.
“It feels amazing and surreal every time I see Filipinos from the court. I didn’t expect so many people to show up and it warmed my heart. It makes me want to play harder, it gives me a reason to keep pushing myself. We are not in our country. A lot of us are alone most of the time,” said the former Ateneo standout.
He added: “It just gives me more motivation to do it, not only for myself but also for the Filipinos who are working May 9 without their families.”
Ravena came on from the bench and finished with two points, seven rebounds, six assists and two steals.
Isaiah Hicks assisted San-En with 23 points and 7 rebounds as NeoPhoenix improved to 10-11.
On the other hand, Wright could not compete on Sunday due to a sprained ankle.
He said he felt disappointed when he couldn’t compete against his compatriots.
“It’s disappointing, but I’m glad they debuted especially around the holiday season. It was fun and they watched the games. Hopefully they’ll be able to come up with more of these,” said the former PBA star.
With the goal, Hannaryz dropped to 7-14.
But help is coming to Kyoto with Wright possibly returning to the lineup as early as next weekend.
“The doctor said I have to take two to three weeks off, but I can come back in the game against Toyama this weekend,” Wright said.
BUT RELATED STORY
Continue reading
Registration QUESTIONER PLUS to get access to The Philippine Daily Inquirer and more than 70 other titles, share up to 5 gadgets, listen to news, download as early as 4am and share articles on social media. Call 896 6000.
For feedback, complaints or requests, Contact us.
