There’s always something special about a coach’s first win—especially when it comes against a team like San Miguel.

In what many would consider an early season shocker; the Phoenix Fuel Masters finally broke through and earned their first victory under newly appointed head coach Willy Wilson. Even more impressive? They did it at the expense of the San Miguel Beermen—a team that, on paper, has more talent, more history, and far loftier expectations. But basketball isn’t played on paper, and Phoenix proved that heart and hustle can still tip the scales.

Building Trust, One Win at a Time

Coaching transitions are rarely smooth. They come with new systems, unfamiliar routines, and the natural growing pains that come with change. For Wilson, a former PBA veteran stepping into the big chair, the first few games were tough. But with this win, the team showed that things are starting to click.

This wasn’t a lucky escape or a buzzer-beater miracle. Phoenix outplayed San Miguel in key stretches, outworked them on loose balls, and executed when it mattered. More than just tactics, it was the energy on the court that stood out. The players looked like they believed in what they were doing—and in who was leading them.

That belief matters. It’s the start of something real.

San Miguel’s Surprising Slide

On the flip side, San Miguel’s early-season struggles are hard to ignore. Sitting winless after multiple games is unfamiliar territory for a franchise that has been a perennial contender. They have the star power. They have the experience. But something just isn’t clicking.

Whether it’s chemistry issues, poor defensive stretches, or simply a case of slow starts, the Beermen look out of rhythm. Credit goes to Phoenix for taking full advantage, but San Miguel will need to regroup—and quickly. In a short conference like the PBA Philippine Cup, every loss matters.

A Win That Goes Beyond the Scoreboard

For Phoenix, this victory could be more than just a notch in the standings. It’s a proof of concept. That what Wilson is preaching in practice has value. That the players bought in. That the effort they’re putting in every day is starting to pay off.

It’s also a message to the rest of the league: don’t sleep on the Fuel Masters. They may not have the biggest names or the flashiest roster, but they’re building something—and they’re not afraid to go toe-to-toe with anyone.

Final thoughts

Wins like this don’t just lift standings—they lift spirits. For Coach Wilson, it’s the first of hopefully many. For the players, it’s a reminder of what they’re capable of when they play together. And for Phoenix fans, it’s a reason to believe again.

The journey is still long, and the challenges will only get tougher from here. But one thing’s clear: with Wilson at the helm and the team finding its identity, Phoenix just took a big step in the right direction.

The Scores

Phoenix 109 –  Rivero 16, Tio 14, Ballungay 14, Perkins 13, Caperal 9, Nelle 9, Daves 7, Taha 6, Kwekuteye 6, Santos 5, Manganti 5, Escandor 3, Jazul 2, Ando 0.

San Miguel 103 – Fajardo 19, Trollano 18, Perez 17, Cruz 15, Lassiter 9, Rosales 9, Brondial 6, Tiongson 5, Tautuaa 5, Cahilig 0, Miller 0.

Quarter scores: 27-23; 61-51; 82-74; 109-103.