Filipino-Canadian star Matthew Wright still harbors hopes of returning to the PBA

Filipino-Canadian star Matthew Wright was recently pictured attending the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup clash between the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and his former team, the Phoenix Fuel Masters, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City on Wednesday, May 28.

Wright attended the game to show his support for the Fuel Masters, a team where he spent six seasons before deciding to take his talents overseas to the Japan B. League, where he has represented two clubs so far.

The 34-year-old is currently on vacation in the Philippines and spent time on the island of Boracay. He admitted that he hopes to return to the PBA in the future, as it is always at the back of his mind.

“I can’t say. But you know, it’s good to see them again. We have spent a lot of time together, so it’s good to catch up with the guys and watch the game live. I wouldn’t hold my breath about me coming back to the PBA again. It’s always at the back of my mind,” Wright told reporters at the venue.

The Fuel Masters are currently struggling in the Philippine Cup, winning just two and losing six of the eight games they have played, placing them ninth in the standings. However, Wright believes that Phoenix has the right players to remain competitive in the competition.

👇 A spot in the PBA will always be waiting for you Wright here, Matthew. #PBA50https://t.co/4Q9moCoPgI

— SPIN.ph (@spinph) May 29, 2025

“They have a good attitude, the right leaders, young talent mixed with good veterans, and good coaches,” he added.

The Filipino-Canadian guard currently plays for the Kawasaki Brave Thunders in the Japan B. League, although his team failed to progress to the playoff stages after finishing eighth in the Central Division with an 18-60 win-loss record. He is contracted with Kawasaki for one more year and is currently aiming to be at 100 percent for the 2025-26 season.

“I’m not worried about next year; I’m just worried about this offseason. Hope I get better,” Wright concluded.

While in the Philippines, Wright also attended the B. Hope 3×3 Challenge, a mixed-gender three-player tournament, which was part of the Japan B. League Final Week in Manila.

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