THE exodus of Filipino cagers bringing their acts overseas continues.
Fil-Canadian gunner Matthew Wright officially bid Phoenix goodbye yesterday after his three-year contract expired.
“It has been an unforgettable six years with the Fuel Masters. Thank you to all my coaches, teammates, ball boys, and bosses for being a part of this chapter in my life,” Wright said on his Instagram account.
“Most importantly, thank you to all the fans who have supported me through thick and thin. I love you all,” he added.
The Fuel Masters thanked Wright for spending six years with the Dennis Uy-owned ballclub in the PBA and wished him well in his next stop, reportedly in the Japan B. League.
“Phoenix Super LPG wishes Matthew Wright all the best in his future endeavors. The team is saddened to see its longest-tenured player go but at the same time grateful for all the blood, sweat, and tears he put into this franchise,” Phoenix said in a statement.
“We know that he will keep the Phoenix flame burning within him wherever he may go.”
The Fuel Masters’ management said it will adhere to the pro league’s ruling where a former PBA player who signs abroad has two years to return. If not, he will have to sit out another three years before becoming an unrestricted free agent.
“As applicable to any player of the team, we shall abide by the existing policies of the PBA with regard to players opting to play abroad.”
Wright, 31, was tabbed by Phoenix in the special draft in 2016 and has since became a Gilas Pilipinas national team mainstay.
He was named as part of the PBA Second Mythical Team last season.
