Village Connect
Filipino basketball star Kai Sotto is once again drawing attention in discussions about a possible NBA opportunity following an impressive return to international competition after recovering from a major knee injury.
The 7-foot-3 center delivered strong performances for Gilas Pilipinas in the second round of the FIBA 2027 World Cup Asian qualifiers, showing that his size, skills and presence inside the paint remain valuable assets.
Sotto averaged a double-double of 15.5 points and 15 rebounds, along with three assists, as the Philippines secured victories over Jordan and Iran. His performance against Jordan was particularly memorable, highlighted by a crucial block at the buzzer in overtime that helped seal the win.
His comeback caught the attention of Jonathan Hernandez, host of the Lakers Legacy Podcast, who believes the 24-year-old Filipino deserves another chance to pursue his NBA ambitions.
Hernandez pointed to Sotto’s ability to score in the post, rebound, run the floor and connect on mid-range shots as encouraging signs after being sidelined for more than a year because of an ACL injury.
Rather than immediately expecting an NBA roster spot, Hernandez suggested that Sotto could take another route by joining an NBA G League team. He specifically mentioned the Coachella Valley Lakers as a possible destination where Sotto could continue developing while remaining within the Los Angeles Lakers organization.
A training camp invitation could also provide Sotto with another opportunity to demonstrate how his game has developed since his previous attempts to break into the NBA.
Beyond his basketball potential, Sotto’s presence could generate considerable interest among Filipino basketball fans. The Philippines has one of the NBA’s most passionate international fan bases, and having a Filipino prospect connected to the Lakers organization could attract additional attention.
Still, Hernandez acknowledged that questions remain about whether Sotto can consistently compete at the NBA level. His speed and explosiveness may be areas of concern, particularly against quicker and more athletic players.
However, Sotto brings several qualities that cannot easily be taught. His extraordinary height and length give him natural advantages as a rebounder and shot blocker, while his offensive game includes footwork in the post, a soft touch near the basket, passing ability and a developing mid-range shot.
Sotto previously appeared in the NBA Summer League, including a game against the Portland Trail Blazers in which he recorded six points, four rebounds and three blocks in only 13 minutes. That performance offered a glimpse of what he could contribute when given meaningful playing time.
For now, an NBA opportunity remains uncertain. But after overcoming a lengthy injury absence and returning with productive performances for Gilas Pilipinas, Sotto has again strengthened the argument that his NBA journey may not be finished.
At 24, the Filipino big man still has time to develop, compete and pursue the dream of becoming the first homegrown Filipino to play in the NBA.
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