PBA’s UPC prevents Kiefer Ravena from playing in Japan B.League, says Willie Marcial

The PBA wasted no time in coming up with its stand after NLEX guard Kiefer Ravena signed a deal to play for the Shiga Lakestars in the Japan B.League.

The 27-year old Road Warriors guard apparently came to terms with the Lakestars for the 2021-2022 season, as announced by the team on its Twitter account on Wednesday.

“We are very pleased to announce that we have signed a new player for the 2021-22 Season with Kiefer Ravena. Ravena will be registered as the Asian Player Quotas,” said the team through a statement.

Commissioner Willie Marcial, however, disclosed that the league won’t allow Ravena to push through with his plans simply because he has a live contract with the Road Warriors.

“Hindi puwede. May kontrata siya sa NLEX, mayroong UPC (Uniform Players Contract) and may commitment siya sa PBA,” said Marcial.

The former Ateneo de Manila standout is tied down to a three-year deal with NLEX which he signed just last September.

Prior to the signing, there were already reports earlier this year what Ravena is planning to join his younger brother Thirdy in Japan. NLEX team manager and head coach Yeng Guiao even confirmed that there was indeed an offer on the table. The volatile mentor, however, bared that while he doesn’t want to stand in Ravena’s way, Guiao reminded him that he has an obligation to fulfill, not only to the team but to the league as well.

NLEX management has yet to release an official statement with regards to the issue as of posting time.