Phoenix Fuel Masters, the newest team to join the PBA, is all set to play in the Commissioner’s Cup on February 10, 2016. The team was recently acquired by Davao-based independent oil company Phoenix Petroleum Philippines.
“It has always been a dream for us in the company and for me as a basketball enthusiast, to be part of this prestigious league,” said Phoenix Petroleum President and CEO Dennis Uy. “Just like how we built the Phoenix organization from a small enterprise into the number one independent oil company today, we will also build the Phoenix Fuel Masters into a competitive and winning team. This may take time – as building any championship team does – but we are ready and committed to do our best for the team, our supporters, and to PBA fans.”
Led by head coach Enrico “Koy” Banal, the Phoenix Fuel Masters will play their first game against NLEX Road Warriors on Feb. 17 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Its roster is headlined by former Gilas Pilipinas player JC Intal and point guard Joshua Urbiztondo, together with Michael Pennisi, Paul Joseph Sorongon, Yutein Andrada, Michael Miranda, John Rodney Brondial, Ryan Roose Garcia, James Forrester, Emmanuel Monfort, William Wilson, and Chico Lanete.
Phoenix has also enlisted Nigerian Andrew Kehinde “Kenny” Adeleke as the team’s import player for this season.
Standing at 6’9”, Adeleke carries with him an impressive pro basketball experience, having played in the NBA Summer League.
After their game debut, the Phoenix Fuel Masters will have their first home game on March 19, 2016 in Panabo City, Davao del Norte. They will be up against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.