Willy Wilson won’t have to wait long for his first big test as the newly-appointed head coach of the Phoenix Fuel Masters. The former PBA veteran will be calling the shots when Phoenix battles it out in the 2025 Kadayawan Invitational Basketball Tournament this week in Davao City.
Wilson, 45, officially took over the reins just last week, stepping in for Jamike Jarin, who has now moved to a team consultant role. But this isn’t unfamiliar territory for the former gritty forward. Since retiring in 2020, Wilson has steadily worked his way up Phoenix’s sidelines—first as an assistant, then as the tactician behind the Fuel Masters’ 3×3 squad, the Limitless Appmasters. Under his guidance, the team snagged a couple of leg titles, the 2021 First Conference crown, and even a bronze medal finish in the 2021 Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi.
Now, he’s bringing that winning mindset to Phoenix’s PBA roster. And what better stage to start than the colorful Kadayawan festivities, where basketball is always a highlight.
Fans in Davao will also get a first look at sophomore guard Francis Escandor in Fuel Masters colors. The former La Salle standout, a proud Davaoeño, was recently picked up on a two-year deal after parting ways with Rain or Shine. His homecoming debut adds extra spice to Phoenix’s campaign.
The Fuel Masters are looking to improve on last year’s third-place finish in the tournament, which was won by Rain or Shine. With Wilson at the helm and Escandor eager to shine in front of his kababayans, Phoenix is out to make noise in this year’s edition.
The 2025 Kadayawan Invitational Basketball Tournament tips off from August 21 to 24.