San-en NeoPhoenix lost their penultimate game of the 2020-2021 Japan B. League season as Filipino star Thirdy Ravena was suddenly benched again on Sunday, May 2.

Ravena was set to start in the NeoPhoenix’ second straight game against Seahorses Mikawa at the Wing Kariya Arena, but San-en head coach Branislav Vicentic decided to sit him out in the last minute.

San-en’s Asian import had been cleared to play after sustaining a left knee injury, as announced by the team on Saturday, May 1.

The NeoPhoenix, though, managed to put up a bit of a fight this time, succumbing to a slim 80-75 loss in the sweep, just a day after Mikawa dealt them a 23-point beating.

The Seahorses improved to a a 32-20 record, while San-en fell to 12-47.

Filipino fans hope to see Ravena suit up for the team’s final game of the season on Wednesday, May 5 against the Shinshu Brave Warriors at 1:05 pm, Manila time.

This game was rescheduled as per league COVID-19 protocols after two Shinshu players tested positive for the virus.

Ravena’s first professional basketball stint in the B. League was marred by setbacks as the Filipino star arrived midway through the season due to visa issues and also contracted COVID-19 in December 2020.

The 24-year-old guard was then sidelined for 3 months after a wrist injury, which also forced him to miss the Japan B.League All-Star games. – Rappler.com