Matthew Wright’s six-year stay with Phoenix Super LPG formally ended at midnight.
Now, the 6-foot-4 Filipino-Canadian winger is a restricted free agent in the Philippine Basketball Association. While on the international scene, he is already a free agent, free to sign with any team.
“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. Most importantly thank you to all the fans who have supported me through thick and thin. I love you all,” read Wright’s Instagram post.
The 31-year-old Wright – whom Phoenix drafted back in the 2016 PBA Gilas draft – was a two-time All-Star MVP, a one-time Mythical First Team member, and a PBA Co-Order of Merit awardee.
“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. We know that he will keep the Phoenix flame burning within him wherever he may go,” read Phoenix’s statement.
The Fuel Masters went on to say that it will abide by “the existing policies of the PBA with regard to players opting to play abroad.”
Wright is about to sign with a B.League team.
As such, the “Ray Parks”-rule will apply wherein a former PBA player who signs abroad has until two years to return to the domestic league. If not, he will have to sit out another three years before being an unrestricted free agent.
