NLEX supports Kiefer Ravena's B.League bid but stands by PBA contract rules

Despite supporting Kiefer Ravena's future plans, the Road Warriors will adhere to the PBA rules on the uniform player contracts. Dennis Acosta (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—The NLEX Road Warriors said on Wednesday night that they will continue to abide by the PBA's rules on the uniform player contract as the said situation has been standing in the way of Kiefer Ravena's transfer to the Shiga Lakestars.

"As a member of the PBA, we are duty bound to abide by the rules and regulations that govern the league. The NLEX Road Warriors stand by the tripartite agreement between our organization, the PBA, and the individual player, which is enshrined in the Uniform Player Contract (UPC)," NLEX said in a statement.

The UPC suddenly became the hot topic over the day when PBA commissioner Willie Marcial said that the rules regarding it would bar Ravena from joining the B.League outfit.

According to Marcial, the UPC also binds the players to the PBA like to their mother teams, which means the league may prevent them from taking their acts overseas.

"The Japan engagement of Kiefer will need to conform to the terms of the UPC as well as the rules and policies of the PBA," the Road Warriors further stated.

Despite the situation, NLEX reiterated that it is fine with Ravena's future endeavors.

"We understand and support Kiefer’s desire for personal advancement," the team further said.

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