Former PBA star Matthew Wright reflects on his B.LEAGUE journey, calling Japan’s basketball scene “on the rise” and a promising platform for showcasing Filipino talent.
The Japan B.LEAGUE has become a hotspot for Filipino basketball talent over the last few years, and Matthew Wright knows exactly why.
Speaking at the B.HOPE Asia 3x3 Challenge on Friday, May 23, Wright offered insight into why Japan has become such productive ground for Pinoy hoopers chasing growth and opportunity abroad.
“There’s no secret that Filipinos—we develop some great basketball players,” Wright told reporters. “There’s so many players in this country, and sometimes there just aren’t enough spots.”
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With limited roster space in local leagues, with the top-of-the line PBA only having 12 teams, Wright believes more Filipinos are looking beyond the Philippines to showcase their talent. And they’re being noticed.
“The B.LEAGUE, Korea, Taiwan—these are all great places to highlight what Filipinos can do,” he said. “All we’re doing is promoting what Filipinos bring to the game. I’m very proud to be part of that wave of athletes—and I think we’re only going to get better.”
After wrapping up his third season in Japan, Wright says the B.LEAGUE offers more than just a competitive platform—it’s part of a basketball movement that’s sweeping the country.
“Japanese basketball is on the rise big time,” he explained. “The B.League is doing great things—like holding events that foster good relations with countries like the Philippines. It just shows how sport can strengthen ties between nations.”
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The former Gilas Pilipinas mainstay also pointed to the increasing visibility of Japanese players internationally.
“You’re seeing Japanese players make it to the NBA now. I’m telling you, the buzz in Japan is real. It’s not just baseball or sumo anymore—basketball is becoming huge, especially with the youth.”
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While the Kawasaki Brave Thunders struggled with an 18-42 record this season, Wright found silver linings in his personal performance.
“We didn’t have the best year as a team, but the one thing I’m really thankful for is that I was injury-free,” Wright said, playing 56 out of 60 possible games. “I was healthy, able to play my role, and show what I could do. To me, that’s already a blessing.”
Wright is part of a growing list of Filipino standouts who’ve made their mark in Japan, including Dwight Ramos, Ray Parks Jr., Kiefer Ravena, and Kai Sotto.
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