Kiefer Ravena Drops In on Strong Group Athletics, Earns Praise From Remy Martin

MANILA, Philippines — Former Strong Group Athletics guard Kiefer Ravena recently showed his support for his former team by joining the squad for a short pickup game, drawing an enthusiastic reaction from fellow Filipino-American basketball standout Remy Martin.

Ravena has been closely associated with Strong Group Athletics, having played a key role in the team’s successful international campaigns. He was part of the Strong Group-Pilipinas squad that won the William Jones Cup in 2024 and returned for the team’s title defense in 2025.

Remy Martin Impressed by Kiefer Ravena

Martin, the former Arizona State standout, spoke highly of Ravena after sharing the court with the veteran point guard.

“Kiefer! Kiefer was here the other day, that was pretty good.”

Martin said he enjoyed playing alongside Ravena and was impressed by the way the veteran guard reads the game.

“I played with Kiefer the other day—he's just a great point guard to play with.”

The fit was particularly appealing to Martin because Ravena's playmaking allowed him to operate without the ball while still finding opportunities to shoot or attack.

“I could see how he reads the game, and I can play off-ball too. He could pass to me, I could shoot, I could drive.”

Ravena’s Strong Group Connection

Ravena's appearance was another reminder of his strong relationship with the organization.

During Strong Group's 2024 Jones Cup championship run, Ravena delivered one of the team's biggest moments, hitting a late three-pointer against Chinese Taipei that helped give the Philippines the lead before the game went to overtime. Strong Group ultimately won the tournament.

The following year, Ravena was again part of the Strong Group core as the team successfully defended its Jones Cup title, completing an undefeated tournament and extending its Jones Cup winning streak to 16 games across the 2024 and 2025 editions.

Martin Follows Filipino Basketball Stars

Martin also acknowledged his admiration for other Filipino basketball players, mentioning Thirdy Ravena and Kai Sotto among those he follows.

His comments reflect the growing connection among Filipino players competing across different basketball pathways, from the NCAA and professional leagues to international competitions.

For Martin, however, sharing the court with Ravena offered a firsthand look at what makes the veteran guard effective.

Ravena is known for his court vision and playmaking ability, with FIBA listing him as a point guard and documenting his extensive international career with the Philippines.

Kiefer Ravena's brief return to the Strong Group environment gave teammates and younger players another opportunity to experience his playmaking firsthand. For Remy Martin, playing alongside the veteran point guard was clearly an experience worth remembering.