Dwight Ramos expects ‘fun’ matchup with Thirdy Ravena as Toyama hosts San-En

It has been more than two weeks since two Filipinos faced off in the Japan B. League, but that streak is about to end this Saturday, November 13, as Dwight Ramos and the Toyama Grouses host back-to-back games against Thirdy Ravena and the San-En NeoPhoenix.

Ramos, who has been averaging 11.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists for the 2-10 Grouses, is expecting nothing but a good, old fun pair of matches with his Gilas Pilpinas teammate and fellow former Ateneo Blue Eagle.

“It’s always fun playing against our fellow Filipinos, especially Thirdy. You know, Thirdy’s really my boy,” he told Kansai Sport.

Although the 24-year-old stud is looking forward to show Ravena around Toyama after the games, he understands the task at hand first, and that is to get much-needed wins regardless of which teams stand in front of them.

“Hopefully we can get something to eat after, but on the court, we’re gonna battle it out. Whoever wins, it’ll be fun either way,” he continued. “I’m just really excited to see him play, and the rest of us Filipinos. It’s a really great opportunity here for us.”

Fans can certainly expect a pair of heated matchups between the two struggling teams, as Toyama is currently on the upswing after earning their two wins in the last four games.

The NeoPhoenix are currently in a win-seeking mood as well with a 3-9 record at ninth place just above the Grouses in the West District, and have lost four straight games.

Much like Ramos, Ravena has settled into his all-around role in his second season with San-En, and is averaging a nearly similar line to his compatriot with 11.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists.

Based on the numbers and the eye test, Ramos and Ravena avoid shooting their way out of a scoring slump, and will quickly look for other ways to help their respective teams if their shots aren’t falling.

Both rising stars are similar in many ways on the court, and both are high-IQ players who have quickly earned the trust of their respective teammates and coaches.

Ramos promised the fans some fun competition this weekend, and that’s likely what they will get from both sides. – Rappler.com