Wright to Gilas: My body’s not ready

MANILA, Philippines — Phoenix Pulse sniper Matthew Wright, who begged off from the first window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, promised to make himself available for Gilas Pilipinas duties and in tip top shape in the next period of the competition.

“My body’s not ready (right now),” Wright, who is dealing with ankle issues, said after Phoenix’ losing game to Alaska in the Phoenix Super Basketball Tourney at Upper Deck Sports Center.

“I’d love to do it and I’m still going to be in the pool. I talked to (Gilas program director) Tab (Baldwin) already and he understands. It’s just my body’s not 100 percent,” added the Fil-Canadian.

Wright was one of four PBA stars who pulled out from the 24-man Gilas pool, the others being Christian Standhardinger, Japeth Aguilar and Mac Belo.

Alaska’s Vic Manuel, one of the replacements for the unvailable pool nominees, isn’t ready to attend Gilas practices just yet as he does double duties as player and father to a new-born daughter.

“Tinatantya ko pa rin katawan ko,” said Manuel, who said he only gets four to six hours of sleep daily then grinds it out in Alaska training.

“Malalaman ko mga ilang araw pa siguro. Nakakahiya na nga sa kanila. Yun nga, yung katawan ko medyo pagod lagi, kailangan ko magpahinga.”