Kai Sotto said that he would ensure that he can join Gilas Pilipinas in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
Kai Sotto of the 36ers warms up prior to the round 17 NBL match between Cairns Taipans and Adelaide 36ers at Cairns Convention Centre, on January 30, 2023, in Cairns, Australia.
This year's FIBA World Cup is a big one since this is the first time that this international basketball competition will take place across three host nations.
These are specifically Indonesia, the Philippines, and Japan. Competing basketball teams from different nations will start battling each other from Aug. 5 until Sept. 10.
Kai Sotto's participation in Gilas Pilipinas is a big deal since he is one of the most naturally talented Filipino basketball stars. But, will his NBA Summer League bid be a conflict?
Kai Sotto Promises To Join Gilas in FIBA World Cup
According to Rappler's latest report, Kai Sotto clarified that his NBA Summer League bid would not be an issue.
"The Summer League won't be a conflict in terms of scheduling. It finishes in mid-July and the World Cup is at the end of August. I think there will be time," said Kai.
Kai Sotto of Adelaide is fouled by Nathan Sobey of the Bullets during the round 16 NBL match between Brisbane Bullets and Adelaide 36ers at Nissan Arena, on January 19, 2023, in Brisbane, Australia.
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This means that it will not prevent him from reinforcing Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA World Cup 2023.
Sotto stated that once he concludes a possible NBA Summer League stint in the United States, he will turn his focus to the FIBA World Cup.
As of writing, Kai Sotto is still hoping to earn a Summer League roster spot since he dreams of joining the National Basketball Association league.
Previously, the homegrown Filipino basketball star already participated in b-ball minicamps, which were organized by the Dallas Mavericks and Utah Jazz.
If ever he is given a chance to join one of the official NBA teams, he will be the first Filipino to do so.
Kai Sotto's Next Step
Inquirer.Net reported that Kai Sotto would be another minicamp. This time, it will be organized by the New York Knicks. This will further expand his experience when it comes to training with official NBA teams.
Sotto is expected to fly to New York in the second week of June to test his luck with other aspiring NBA basketball players.
Tony Ronzone, Sotto's agent, said that the 7-foot-3 big man is already going through the process of introducing himself to NBA teams and coaches.
Ronzone confirmed that Sotto will compete with other aspiring basketball players who are "hungry to get an opportunity to play in the Summer League and get an opportunity to make a roster."
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