MATTHEW Wright lauded Phoenix for its move of stacking up its roster with young, promising talent as it tries to keep in step with the tough competition in the PBA.
The Fil-Canadian guard noted the addition of young bloods like rookies Ricci Rivero, Ken Tuffin, Matthew Daves, and Raffy Verano this season to complement the Fuel Masters' veteran core of Jason Perkins, RJ Jazul, RR Garcia, Javee Mocon, and Raoul Soyud.
"I think the organization is doing everything to become successful and competitive," said Wright who was on a short vacation in the country and managed to watch the Fuel Masters' Commissioner's Cup game against Rain or Shine over the weekend at the Ynares Center in Pasig.
He added, "It's refreshing to see that guys are getting the opportunities. I think Phoenix made some big roster moves. I think they drafted very well this year."
The Fuel Masters didn't disappoint their former top gun as they essayed a thrilling 99-98 win over the Elasto Painters, with Perkins leading the way among the locals with 14 points, sophomore Tyler Tio with 13, and Sean Manganti adding 10.
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Tio, according to Wright, could be the next big thing for Phoenix.
"He's slowly becoming the face of the franchise," he said of the guard out of Ateneo. "I saw the potential in him when he was a rookie and I was in my last several conferences," he said.
Wright left for Japan Sunday where he currently has a live contract with the Kyoto Hannaryz.
But he plans to stay in the country longer once the B. League season is over.
Although away from the country for more than a year now, Wright said he still keep in touch with what is happening in the league and in contact with his former teammates and Filipino friends.
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At the same time, he mentioned about ending his playing career by returning to the PBA.
"I would like to definitely finish my career here," said Wright. (RG)
