Thirdy Ravena and Jamie Malonzo. File photos from B.LEAGUE, FIBA BASKETBALL
MANILA -- Thirdy Ravena and Jamie Malonzo have found their new homes in the Japan B.League.
Ravena will begin a new chapter in the Japanese league with the Toyama Grouses, the team made the announcement on Friday.
"Hello boosters, I’m Thirdy Ravena and I’m excited to come back to Japan and play my best for the Grouses this season," he said in the team's post.
Ravena first entered the B.League in 2020, breaking new ground for Filipino basketball players when he signed as an Asian import.
The three-time UAAP champion spent four seasons with the San-en NeoPhoenix before moving to Emirati club Dubai Basketball in the ABA League.
Ravena played 18 games with Dubai Basketball in the 2024-2025 season, before reportedly leaving Dubai. Last May, the 29-year-old participated in B.League Final Week in Manila festivities.
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Meanwhile, Malonzo is going back to Japan, signing with the Earthfriends Tokyo Z.
The Japanese squad welcomed Malonzo and five others players on its official social media pages on Friday.
"I'm incredibly blessed and grateful to begin this new chapter of my journey with Earthfriends Tokyo Z. It’s an honor to join a club with such passionate fans and a strong vision for the future. I'm excited to get to Tokyo, meet my teammates, coaches, and everyone who supports this organization," Malonzo said in the team's official website.
"I can't wait to compete at the highest level, give everything I have every single day, and do my part to help bring success to the team. See you all soon — let's make this a special season together!" he further wrote.
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Last July, Malonzo made the shocking move to leave Barangay Ginebra after three years of playing with the team in the PBA.
The 29-year-old signed with Kyoto Hannaryz, but ended up only producing averages of 1.2 points and 1.0 rebound in 6.2 minutes of play.
Last October, Malonzo's contract with the team was terminated after only five games.
Malonzo is expected to suit up for the Earthfriends Tokyo Z in the upcoming season, where the team will play in the league's second division in the eastern conference.
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