Phoenix underwent a major personnel overhaul in the offseason with new coach Willy Wilson hoping to transform the Fuel Masters into a defense-oriented team that will shake up the PBA Philippine Cup. Wilson, however, isn’t rushing things as he said the transformation is a work in progress but the clock is ticking and his baptism of fire comes against TNT at the Ynares Center Montalban on Friday.
‘We’re very much still a work in progress as I largely am,’ said Wilson, a 14-year PBA veteran. ‘I’m really hoping I don’t let him (PBA treasurer/Phoenix PBA governor Atty. Raymond Zorrilla) and the fanbase down. I’m feeling the pressure. I’m trying to turn the team into a defensive team and it’s not easy.’
Phoenix enters the Golden Anniversary season with seven new players, including rookie Dave Ando. Switching from different teams are Evan Nelle, James Kwekuteye, Francis Escandor, Prince Caperal, Bryan Santos and Yousef Taha. First round pick Will Gozum is expected to join the squad when done with his MPBL obligations.
‘We’re leaning in the direction to bring in Will,’ said Wilson. But reinstating Matthew Wright isn’t an option at the moment. ‘What I know is he’s still under contract with the B-League so he can’t play for Phoenix,’ he added. ‘Matthew can help a lot with his leadership and mentorship.’
Nelle’s arrival is a season late as Zorrilla said he would’ve been Phoenix’ first round pick last year if only Kai Balunggay didn’t fall on the Fuel Masters’ lap. ‘Evan was going to be our first round pick but we couldn’t pass up on a 6-7 guy and when our turn came next, Evan was gone,’ said Zorilla. ‘This time, we got him on a trade. He has a high basketball IQ, can shoot the three and even four, pass and take the load off Tyler (Tio).’
Phoenix holdovers Jason Perkins, Balunggay, Tio, RJ Jazul, Sean Manganti, Ricci Rivero, Ken Tuffin, Matthew Daves and RR Garcia provide continuity from last year’s roster. Wilson has the tools to make a strong push for playoff contention and the quicker the team adjusts to its defensive mind-set, the better its chances to advance.