Matt Nieto signs three-year deal with NLEX

Matt Nieto is officially a Road Warrior.

The gutsy guard has been signed to a three-year deal by NLEX after he secured his release from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) alongside fellow 2019 Gilas Pilipinas draftees.

"After seeing his twin brother, Mike, joining the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters a few days ago, Matt Nieto can now fulfill his aspirations of playing in the PBA when he signed a three-year deal with the NLEX Road Warriors on Tuesday night," NLEX said in a statement on Tuesday night.

Nieto has been joining the Road Warriors in team practices ahead of the 2021 PBA Governors' Cup restart on February 11 and NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao said he's impressed by the former Ateneo gunner.

“From what I saw from the player three years ago to the player I’ve seen just recently, I think he has become even better and more matured,” Guiao said.

With Nieto on board, NLEX will be getting a much-needed boost in its backcourt, especially after the absence of Kiefer Ravena who flew to Japan to play for the Shiga Lakestars.

Nieto, who averaged six points, 1.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers, said he's eager to play not only for himself but also to fulfill his father's dreams.

“It’s always been the dream, not only for me, but also for my family, especially my dad. Hindi kasi nag-PBA si daddy. Gusto niyang maging doctor," said Nieto.

“'Yun na siguro 'yung greatest regret niya, kaya gusto niya, bata pa lang kami, mag-PBA na kami. This is it. We're living his dream also.” — LA, GMA News