Kiefer Ravena: Being a sports celeb is like being in show biz

Kiefer Ravena

Former Ateneo Blue Eagles star cager Kiefer Ravena has finally turned pro. He was No. 2 in the top 12 overall rookie draft in the 43rd season of the PBA (Philippine Basketball Association), which officially began last Dec 17.

Kiefer has movie-star looks. I won’t be surprised if he joins show biz, just like some former PBA players did. The NLEx Road Warriors point guard is all set to dribble his way into the hearts of PBA diehards.

Here’s my chat with Kiefer:
Are you willing to join show biz ? In our world today, we’re considered sport celebrities, so I guess we’re part of show biz already. I tried doing a sitcom (“No Harm, No Foul” on TV5). It was fun and tiring at the same time, that’s why I learned to appreciate celebs more, knowing how they work and what they experience, day in and day out.

What excites you and scares you about finally playing in the PBA? What excites me is the challenge it brings to me. As per any competitor, every time you encounter new challenges, you always want to prove yourself and rise above those obstacles. And it’s the same thing that scares me—that I won’t be able to perform at the level I want.

How do you handle the pressure of bagging the rookie of the year award since you are one of the most popular rookies this season? It’s still a long season and one game cannot justify the whole season. So, I just have to be consistent and continue the things I’m doing to help my team win.

How do you and your girlfriend/volleyball star player Alyssa (Valdez) handle arguments? We talk about it and try to compromise. It’s normal to have arguments. It’s what strengthens the relationship, I believe.

What’s the toughest part of turning pro? Carrying yourself all throughout, as a true professional.

People look up to you, especially the kids, so you have to represent yourself in a good way.

What are you planning to invest in with your PBA earnings? Depending on what the opportunity is. It’s nice to have investments, but you can’t just invest, invest, invest. There’s a process, and certain things needed to be done to make the right investments. Personally, I’d take a look at the real estate business.

What was your dad’s (former PBA player, Bong Ravena) advice to you about PBA? Just be myself. Play the right way, and enjoy the moment.

What’s the naughtiest thing you’ve done? I’ll get into trouble if I answer this question (laughs).

How do you handle victory and defeat? You have to be gracious and humble in both. It’s the beauty of the sport. It teaches us to realize there are things beyond winning and losing.

If you were a PBA coach, who would your starting five be? Jayson Castro, Gabe Norwood, Ranidel de Ocampo, Japeth Aguilar, Junmar Fajardo.