MATTHEW Wright is thrilled Chris Banchero finally gets to join him and together tend the backcourt for Phoenix.
By that, the deadly Fil-Canadian gunner will also be free from the constant hounding the tight-guarding Banchero usually apply on him when they were still on the opposite side of the fence.
"The first that I mentioned to him was you don't have to guard me anymore because he was really the one tasked, when he was with Magnolia, even on Alaska, he was the one guarding me for," said a smiling Wright during a guest stint in the sports program The Game.
Banchero, 32, was acquired by the Fuel Masters in an off-season trade with Magnolia for Calvin Abueva.
Wright describes the Fil-Italian guard as physical and in shape. He also noted how strong and quick Banchero is in the many times they've been matched up together.
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Just last season, Banchero was all over Wright during their respective team's run in the Philippine Cup bubble, one which saw the Fuel Masters get the Hotshots out of their way during the playoffs.
"I felt first-hand his defense. And I know how good a defender he is," admitted Wright. "And so I'm happy he's on my side of things now."
But other than no longer seeing Banchero's hands on his face, the Phoenix top gun said getting the services of the veteran guard was a huge pick for the team despite having to give Abueva to the Hotshots in return.
"Obviously we lost some key guys, but from the guard's perspective, he's a dynamic player. He pushes the ball and that's something we need. And he's a great defender as well," said Wright.
"I've told him to communicate on what we've both wanted to accomplish. He's on board, and I think he can be great for our team. " (RG)
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