MAKE it to the playoffs.
That’s the first order of business for newly-appointed Phoenix coach Willy Wilson when his wards do battle in the season-opening PBA Philippine Cup set to come off the wraps on Oct. 5.
“First and foremost, we’re trying to make the playoffs. We get into the quarterfinals and anything from there is possible in my opinion. I think making it to the finals is a huge confidence boost to the team,” Wilson said in an online interview. “A team that, you know, we’re always kind of waiting for what’s next that’s going to go wrong. Whether it be injuries or whatnot. So, making it to the playoffs, I think, first and foremost, would be a huge confidence boost.
“But, you know, even getting more micro than macro, it’s about getting that first win and proving that we’re capable of winning ballgames.”
Wilson, 45, served previously as assistant to former strategist Jamike Jarin from 2020 until over the weekend when the Dennis Uy-owned ball club made the switch. Jarin was named team consultant.
“Initially, surprised, shocked. Obviously, we’re a tight-knit group in there in the coaches’ room and we support coach Jamike 100 percent. Second reaction was thankful,” Wilson said. “There are only 12 spots in the world to be a head coach in the PBA and I’m one of them now.
“So, very, very thankful, very grateful to the Phoenix management.”
A former La Salle standout and 14-year pro league journeyman with stops at Alaska, San Miguel Beer, Ginebra, Barako Bull, and the Fuel Masters, Wilson said his system will likely still be the same with Jarin’s.
“It’s just very, very small tweaks here and there. We’re continuing what coach Jamike started. It’s the foundation. That’s what we’re built on top of and it’s just fine-tuning and mastering what coach Jamike has already built,” he said.
“Coach Jamike, he’s there every single day, mentoring, coaching the boys. We’re still working together. It’s just now, I’m just gonna be the one standing up.”
After winning just eight games in 33 outings last season, Wilson could just be what the doctor ordered for Phoenix—a new tactician and a new hope.
