Ricci Rivero commits to Phoenix with contract extension ahead of PBA’s 50th season

Ricci Rivero will be wearing the Fuel Masters jersey for years to come.

Phoenix announced that the flashy guard agreed to a contract extension ahead of the PBA’s milestone 50th season, which tips off next month. The deal was made official on social media, where the team posted a photo of Rivero alongside his agent Charlie Dy, team manager Paolo Bugia, and assistant coach Christien dela Cruz.

The exact terms of the extension were not disclosed, but Phoenix’s post hinted at stability, saying Rivero is “staying for the long haul.”

Rivero, 26, signed his first two-year contract in 2023 after being selected in the second round of the Rookie Draft. Since then, he has carved out a role as one of Phoenix’s energizers, providing scoring punch, defensive hustle, and marketable star power thanks to his popularity on and off the court.

In his first two seasons with the Fuel Masters, Rivero averaged 6.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game across all conferences, highlighted by several double-digit scoring outings in the 2023–2024 Commissioner’s Cup, where Phoenix made a surprise run to the semifinals behind Best Import Johnathan Williams. 

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STILL PUMPED UP

The Phoenix Fuel Masters secure a key piece for their roster as Ricci Rivero officially re-signs with the team ahead of the highly anticipated 50th season of the PBA.#PBA50 #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/314XnSyRS8

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) September 11, 2025

Rivero’s athleticism and versatility allowed coach Jamike Jarin—then at the helm—to slot him at both guard spots, often sparking runs off the bench.

A product of two powerhouse collegiate programs—the De La Salle Green Archers and the UP Fighting Maroons—Rivero entered the pros with a reputation as a big-game player. He was part of La Salle’s UAAP Season 79 championship team in 2016 and later played a key role in UP’s resurgence before turning professional.

Now under newly appointed coach Willy Wilson, Phoenix is banking on Rivero’s continued development as it looks to build a playoff-contending squad in Season 50. 

The Fuel Masters were also active in the offseason, acquiring playmaker Evan Nelle in a three-team trade with NorthPort and Converge, while adding NCAA MVP Will Gozum through the first round of the 2025 Rookie Draft.

Rivero is expected to provide veteran stability in a young backcourt rotation while also growing into a leadership role, especially with Phoenix retooling for the long run.

With his extension secured, Rivero is poised to remain one of the faces of the Fuel Masters as they aim for consistency and another deep playoff push.  

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