Matthew Wright makes Japan return, signs with Saitama Broncos

Matthew Wright is heading back to Japan for another chapter in his professional basketball career.

The Filipino-Canadian guard has signed with the Saitama Broncos for the 2025-26 B.League One season, marking his return to the Japanese basketball scene after a year away from the sport.

Wright expressed his excitement about joining the Broncos and returning to Japan.

"My family and I cannot wait to embrace the city of Saitama and the Broncos organization. I’m looking forward to coming back to Japan and making an immediate impact on the team," Wright said.

"Thank you for this opportunity to showcase my talents on the basketball court."

The 35-year-old veteran first moved to Japan in 2022 after a six-year stint with the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Phoenix Fuel Masters. He suited up for Kyoto from 2022 to 2024 before transferring to Kawasaki for the 2024-25 season.

With Kawasaki, Wright averaged 10.4 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game.

Following the season, Wright took a break from professional basketball to focus on caring for his mother. His only competitive appearance during that period came with Gilas Pilipinas Men, helping the national team secure the gold medal in the 34th Southeast Asian Games.

Now, Wright is ready to return to the court and bring his experience, scoring ability, and leadership to Saitama as he begins a new chapter in Japan.