Matt Nieto signs contract with NLEX Road Warriors in the PBA. –MATT NIETO INSTAGRAM
MANILA, Philippines—Matt Nieto is officially part of NLEX after the former Gilas Pilipinas guard signed a three-year deal Tuesday.
His signing is just a few days after twin brother Mike signed with Rain or Shine.
“From what I saw from the player three years ago to the player I’ve seen just recently, I think he has become even better and more matured,” said Road Warriors head coach Yeng Guiao in the team’s website.
Nieto is one of the five Gilas players who were selected in the special round of the 2019 PBA Draft for national team players.
Other players in that special draft were his twin brother Mike, Isaac Go, Rey Suerte, and Allyn Bulanadi.
“Can’t wait to be part of this journey! Officially a Road Warrior,” posted Nieto on his Instagram as he also thanked the team’s bosses.
Nieto is expected to be a key contributor for the Road Warriors as he joins a backcourt comprised of Kevin Alas, Kris Rosales, Philip Paniamogan and Jericho Cruz.
Kiefer Ravena’s absence could also pave way for Nieto to take control of the point guard spot for the 4-1 Road Warriors.
Nieto said that joining the PBA is his and his brother’s way of living their dad’s dream as their father Jet, a two-time UAAP champion for Ateneo in 1987 and 1988, never played in the professional league.
“Daddy never got a chance to play in the PBA because he wanted to be a doctor,” said Nieto. “That is probably his biggest regret so that’s why he wanted us, even during when we were kids, to play in the PBA. This is it, we’re also living his dream.”