Injury forces Matthew Wright to miss February games

GILAS Pilipinas is officially down one more shooter to start the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers.

Phoenix swingman Matthew Wright will be out against Thailand and Indonesia next week as he continues to rehab his injured ankle.

He dropped by practice Wednesday to talk to program director Tab Baldwin, team manager Gabby Cui said.

"Matthew pulled out because he has something wrong with his ankle. He came by to talk to Coach Tab, he said he wanted to join but unfortunately he had to rehab his ankle," Cui said.

"He won't be able to make it (to the tourament)."

With Wright out of the pool, the addition of Rain Or Shine's Javee Mocon makes more sense.

Mocon practiced for the second straight day with Gilas and he looks to take over one of the wing spots vacated by Wright.

"He's stepped up and is willing to help the team. Very happy for Javee," Cui said.

Other additions to Gilas following recent developments are Alaska's Vic Manuel and Abu Tratter.

The pair have yet to show up in practice since the Aces are out on a team building. They're expected to join the national team later this week.

"We're waiting for Vic and Abu. They're very willing to help out. I think Abu will be here Friday," Cui said.

"Si Vic, congratulations to him I think his wife is giving birth Saturday. Baka he'll be here Sunday. Even on short notice they still want to help." ABSCBN Sports