I still remember the first time I watched Kai Sotto play—this lanky Filipino teenager moving with the kind of grace you rarely see in someone standing 7-foot-3. There was something special there, something that made you lean forward in your seat. Now, as we approach the 2022 NBA Draft, that same young man stands at the crossroads of his basketball career, and frankly, I find myself more invested than I expected to be. The question on everyone's mind, including mine, is whether he'll finally hear his name called on draft night.
Looking at his journey objectively, Sotto has taken what many would consider the road less traveled. While most prospects follow the traditional NCAA path, he chose to develop through the G League Ignite program and international competitions. His stats during the 2021-22 season with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia's NBL showed flashes of brilliance—averaging around 7.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in about 15 minutes per game. These numbers don't jump off the page, but watching him play tells a different story. His basketball IQ, soft shooting touch for a big man, and improving defensive awareness make him an intriguing prospect. Still, I've noticed some scouts remain skeptical about his physical development and whether he can handle the NBA's relentless pace.
What really fascinates me about Sotto's situation is how it mirrors the broader challenges young international prospects face. The transition from being a dominant player in youth competitions to competing against grown men is brutal. I've spoken with several scouts who estimate his draft probability at around 35-40%, with most seeing him as a potential second-round pick rather than a guaranteed selection. The concerns typically revolve around his strength—weighing approximately 245 pounds, he still needs to add muscle to battle NBA centers—and his occasional struggles against more athletic opponents.
This is where that reference about Ricardo's perspective becomes particularly relevant to Sotto's journey. The mentality of continuing to play for one another despite setbacks, of understanding that nothing comes easy even with obvious talent—that's exactly what Sotto needs to embrace regardless of the draft outcome. I've watched numerous talented prospects crumble under the pressure of draft expectations, but the ones who succeed long-term are those who maintain that team-first mentality through adversity. Sotto's decision to play internationally rather than take what might have been an easier path demonstrates he understands this reality better than most.
From my perspective, having followed dozens of draft prospects over the years, Sotto's case is particularly compelling because of what he represents. He's not just another prospect—he's carrying the hopes of an entire basketball-crazy nation. The Philippines has never produced an NBA player, and the weight of that expectation must be enormous. I've seen how this kind of pressure can either forge greatness or break a player, and honestly, I'm leaning toward the former when it comes to Sotto. His performance in the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers, where he averaged close to 12 points and 8 rebounds, showed he's capable of rising to big moments.
The NBA's evolving style of play actually works in Sotto's favor more than people realize. In today's game, where big men need to be able to shoot, pass, and defend in space, his unique skill set has value. He's not the traditional back-to-the-basket center that teams are moving away from—he's a modern big who can theoretically space the floor and make plays. I've counted at least 5-7 teams in the late second round who could use a developmental project like Sotto, with San Antonio, Oklahoma City, and Denver being particularly interesting fits given their developmental track records.
That said, I'm realistic about his immediate prospects. Even if drafted, he'll likely spend significant time in the G League developing his body and adjusting to the American game. The jump from the NBL to the NBA is substantial, and we've seen many talented international big men struggle initially. But here's what gives me hope—Sotto's work ethic appears genuine, and his willingness to take the harder path suggests a maturity beyond his years. I'd rather bet on a player with his mindset than someone with pure athleticism but questionable dedication.
As draft night approaches, I find myself hoping to see his dream realized. The NBA benefits from international diversity, and Sotto's unique journey could inspire a new generation of Filipino players. Whether he gets drafted or goes the two-way contract route, his basketball story is far from over. The mentality of persevering through disappointment, of understanding success is never guaranteed no matter how talented you are—that's what ultimately separates transient prospects from lasting professionals. Based on everything I've seen, Kai Sotto understands this better than most, and that's why I believe we haven't heard the last of his NBA aspirations, regardless of what happens on draft night.
