Gilas standout Dwight Ramos will play for Levanga Hokkaido on his second year in the first division of the B.League in Japan.
Ramos’ stint was confirmed by team officials, a few days after Philippine Basketball Association executives went to Japan and paid B.League executives a visit and expressed concerns about an exodus of players going abroad to play.
The 24-year-old Ramos said his experience with Gilas has helped sharpen his game. Last season, the 6’4″ guard played for the Toyama Grouses.
“My experience with the National Team was great. Even during the off-season, I was able to learn from its games. I believe that this experience will definitely help me better this regular season,” said Ramos in a statement.
Levanga General Manager Takahiko Kiyonaga said Ramos will be a great asset to the squad.
“We are greatly happy to have Dwight Ramos on this team, the Levanga Hokkaido. He has a great physical ability, and we believe that he will contribute to the team both in offense and defense,” remarked Kiyonaga.
Kiyonaga added that Ramos, being a member of Gilas, was a big thing for the team.
“He is a player that represents Philippines, and having him on the Levanga Hokkaido is huge for us. He is also a face of Filipino basketball and is like an ambassador that will become a chance for Filipino people to know about the Levanga Hokkaido and B.League,” said Kiyonaga.
Earlier, big man Greg Slaughter made a decision to sign up to a Division II squad Japan– Rizing Zephyr Fukuoka.
The 34-year-old Slaughter played for seven years with Barangay Ginebra San Miguel before moving to Northport Batang Pier.