Phoenix head coach Ariel Vanguardia and Fil-Canadian Matthew Wright are set to reunite in the PBA. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
If there’s someone who can get the most of Matthew Wright, it’s definitely coach Ariel Vanguardia.
And with Phoenix nabbing the Fil-Canadian guard in the Gilas round of the 2016 PBA Rookie Draft on Sunday, a reunion is set in the Fuel Masters camp.
“I’m very happy. To be honest, I’m just lucky to be here,” he said.
READ: PBA Draft Focus: Wright brings ‘fiery, competitive’ nature to PBA
Though elated with his position, Wright is just overwhelmed with the roller coaster ride his career has been for the past month.
“It was crazy. A month ago, I had no idea what was going to happen. I had a plan on what I want to happen but it finally came into fruition,” he said. “I’m just a kid from Canada who did not expect to be in the PBA for another two to three years. It’s crazy how far I’ve come.”
Coming out of St. Bonaventure in New York, Wright has had opportunities to play against NBA talents like Norris Cole and Langston Galloway. He brought that experience when he played overseas, before landing to the Asean Basketball League and helping the Westports Malaysia Dragons win a championship, while also tussling against former NBA player Jimmer Fredette with Mighty Sports in this year’s Merlion Cup.
READ: Fil-Canadian Matthew Wright named ABL Heritage MVP
Now, Wright will bank on those experiences as he pulls a double duty in the PBA and the national team.
“I can say played against the best of the best in the States. I think it will give me an advantage as a rookie playing in the PBA,” he said. IDL