Phoenix rookie Will Gozum aiming to follow in footsteps of PBA greats

The Phoenix Fuelmasters’ eighth-overall pick Will Gozum is entering the PBA with hopes of following in the footsteps of his “idols.”

The former NCAA MVP revealed that eight-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo, Ginebra import Justin Brownlee, and PBA legend James Yap are his idols in the league.

“Una, si Kuya Junemar. Then Justin Brownlee. And syempre, si James Yap — idol ko siya simula bata pa ako,” Gozum said.

Fajardo has emerged as one of the greatest players in the league with his dominance in the paint, as well as being a catalyst for the San Miguel Beermen’s dynasty in the league. 

Brownlee has been a constant force for Barangay Ginebra since his arrival in 2016, while Yap, who is also a former MVP, was one of the league’s most popular players due to his exciting style of play and his status as a star for the Purefoods franchise.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

YOUNG BLOOD. 💪🏼

Promising youngsters Geo Chiu, Juan Gomez de Liaño, and Dalph Panopio go 1-2-3 in the PBA Season 50 rookie draft as long-awaited veteran Jason Brickman slides down to 7th and former NCAA MVP Will Gozum to 8th. pic.twitter.com/ImnYBxtWQL

— Rappler (@rapplerdotcom) September 7, 2025

Gozum cited their consistency in the league as the benchmark and said he wants to follow in their footsteps as he begins his PBA journey with a young Phoenix team that consists of Ricci Rivero, Kai Ballungay, Tyler Tio, and the newly-acquired Evan Nelle.

“Makita mo yung consistency nila, grabe. Yun yung gusto kong sundan,” he added.

Gozum, alongside fellow Phoenix draft picks Dave Ando, Harvey Pagsanjan, and Aldave Canoy, among others, will seek to help Phoenix become contenders in the league’s historic 50th season.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate basketball fans.