Filipino basketball star Thirdy Ravena is set to return to Japan B.League action with the San-en NeoPhoenix on Wednesday, March 31.

Ravena confirmed the development to Rappler as San-en will face the Ryuku Golden Kings in the Okinawa City Gymnasium.

But Ravena said he will slowly ease into the game as he still lacks practice time with the team.

“I only practiced once with the team in 3 months, so I’m not sure about [my condition]. But I’m definitely excited and I’ll take it slow,” Ravena told Rappler.

On January 2, Ravena fractured his right fourth finger in the game against the Shibuya Sun Rockers.

The San-en Asian import exited the court in the 3rd period after hurting his right hand during a loose ball situation and did not return for the remainder of the game.

Before the injury, Ravena had 6 points and 4 rebounds in 18 minutes of action.

Though he was nominated to the Japan B.League’s All-Star dunk contest, he was pulled out of the tournament due to his injury.

The country’s lone three-peat UAAP Finals MVP has only played 12 games with San-en since his late arrival to Japan due to visa issues.

Ravena also contracted COVID-19 in Japan, and upon recovery, returned to action on December 12 as San-en blew out the Hokkaido Levanga. – Rappler.com