Thirdy Ravena should Join the 2018 PBA Draft

(c) Inquirer Media Bureau

The 2018 UAAP finals ended yesterday and I think a new amateur star was legitimized. Leading Ateneo de Manila University to their 2nd straight title was not their import, Ange Koume, but their full-blooded wingman Thirdy Ravena!

Ravena exploded for 38 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal and 3 blocks in game 2! He was so dominant that he was so efficient with his 13/19 FG and 5/8 from beyond the arc. 

In the 1st game, Ravena was also the best player as he put up 21 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks!

With his performance, Thirdy grabbed his 2nd straight Finals MVP award.

Now, Thirdy still has a year left of eligibility for Ateneo. Should he consider foregoing his final year to join the 2018 PBA draft?

I think, the clear answer is Yes.

Why?

HE IS READY FOR THE PROS

The fact that he dominated the finals with an import on each side was a great indication of how high the level of skills is. I can confidently say that he can already be a reliable player in the pros. With his athleticism and strong body, Thirdy will be hard to be pushed around in the PBA.

As shown by his production in the finals, Ravena is a stat-filler. He can do everything. He can grab rebounds, make plays for his teammates, make the right passes, hit pull-up 3s, drive to the basket, finish fast breaks and play good individual and team defense.

With what he just showed in the Finals, I think Ravena will easily be a top 5 pick in this upcoming draft. 

2019 DRAFT IS DEEPER THAN THE 2018 DRAFT

The potential 2019 pool is much deeper because a lot of the international Filipino-blooded players are rumored to finally clear up their eligibilities and join the draft.

Thus, if Thirdy wants to be a top 6 pick, this is the right draft to join. I do not think Rain or Shine or  Meralco, holder of the 5th and 6th pick, respectively, will say no to Ravena.