Ricardo Ratliffe, also known as Ra Gun-ah, is set for a highly anticipated return to the PBA, reuniting with the Magnolia Hotshots for the upcoming Commissioner's Cup. Coach Chito Victolero confirmed Ratliffe's signing during an NCAA event, stating that the import will arrive in late October, about a month before the new conference begins.
Ratliffe first suited up for Magnolia (then Star) in 2016, and his dominant inside presence made him an instant hit. He played a pivotal role in the Hotshots' playoff campaigns, despite narrow losses to the San Miguel Beermen. His second stint in 2017 saw Magnolia make the semifinals, but they once again fell short, losing to San Miguel in a best-of-five series.
The four-time Korean Basketball League (KBL) champion has since had a successful career in South Korea, even becoming a naturalized player for their national team. Ratliffe played for South Korea during the 2019 FIBA World Cup and built a strong reputation overseas. Now, with his return to Magnolia, he brings both experience and elite skill to a Hotshots team eager for redemption after a disappointing import situation last season.
Magnolia had import woes in the recent Governors' Cup, starting with former NBA slam dunk champion Glenn Robinson III and then bringing in Shabazz Muhammad, who was injured late in the group stage. The Hotshots eventually brought in Reyvonte Rice, but his underwhelming performance, including a playoff loss to Rain or Shine, left the team scrambling for answers.
Victolero is hopeful that Ratliffe’s early arrival will stabilize the team and help them avoid the same challenges they faced with their imports last season. With his rebounding and defensive prowess, Ratliffe could be the key to Magnolia’s success as they seek to contend for a championship.
Though fans are excited about Ratliffe's return, there's a cautious optimism. Some still have doubts after last few years struggles and challenges, and the pressure will be on for him to deliver. If Ratliffe performs at the high level he is known for, his presence could be the missing piece to elevate the Hotshots back to title contention.
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