Former Phoenix import Johnathan Williams III in action during the 2023 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Phoenix may have ended with the worst record in Group B of the PBA Governors’ Cup but that doesn’t exactly mean things can’t turn around for the team in the upcoming Commissioner’s Cup.
After all, coach Jamike Jarin teased the possibility of having Johnathan Williams III back for the next import-laden conference.
READ: PBA: Johnathan Williams III credits young Phoenix players in hot streak
Jarin, though, was non-committal on whether Williams’ return to Phoenix is a sure thing.
“Secret,” said Jarin in jest when asked if Williams was bound to return for the Fuel Masters.
Phoenix Fuel Masters’ coach Jamike Jarin during their final game in the PBA Governors’ Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
“But of course, we’d like to bring him back. He was the best import, brought us to the semifinals, we were just two games away from getting to the Finals. We’re happy and we’re excited.”
Everyone knows how huge Williams was for the budding Fuel Masters when he was in town earlier this year.
READ: PBA: Phoenix adds to versatility by picking Kai Ballungay
Williams was the winner of last year’s Commissioner’s Cup Best Import award over big time names like San Miguel’s Bennie Boatwright and Magnolia’s Tyler Bey.
Williams powered Phoenix to a semifinal appearance—a franchise best—with norms of 24.5 points, 16.4 points, 5.2 assists and 1.6 blocks per game.
Unfortunately, the Fuel Masters bowed to Magnolia in the tournament’s semifinals.
Since then, Phoenix lost the splendor it once had with Williams. The Fuel Masters failed to excel and ended their Governors’ Cup campaign with a 1-9 card with a lone win coming at the expense of Blackwater.
“We have the youngest team in the PBA. The journey will be very difficult for a young, young team like us so we will continue that journey together.” explained Jarin.