Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 2) — It looks like Kiefer Ravena can’t fly to Japan anytime soon.
Hours after the announcement of Ravena’s signing with Japanese basketball team Shiga Lakestars, PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial clarified that the second generation cager is under a contract with the NLEX Road Warriors and the move will constitute a violation of the league’s Uniform Players’ Contract (UPC).
“Kiefer has a UPC with us, so he’s not allowed to play in other leagues. He has a contract,” the PBA chief told CNN Philippines in Filipino.
Ravena has signed a three-year contract extension with the Road Warriors in September last year. He needs to secure a clearance with the team and from the PBA before he can play elsewhere.
Kiefer became the second Filipino player to be signed by a Japanese basketball team in their professional league, following his brother Thirdy who is playing for the San-En NeoPhoenix.
Kiefer averaged 19.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists for the NLEX Road Warriors in the last PBA season.
God is good! 3 more years with my team! Hoping to achieve great things with our group!! 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/EV67ZJp2M0
— Kiefer Ravena (@kieferravena) September 1, 2020
