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Finally revealing his future plans, teenager Kai Sotto confirmed his entry into the select NBA G League squad on Thursday, emphasizing that the show offers the best path to reach the NBA.
Sotto will be part of the first group of prospects on the show led by Filipino-American Jalen Green, who, like the prominent Filipino, also turned down several offers from college shows to join the NBA G League.
NBA G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim also announced Sotto’s entry into the program, which gives potential young people the opportunity to start their professional careers while receiving mentoring and life skills training.
Sotto, who has been based in Atlanta for the past year, honing his game with The Skill Factory, will have a chance to accelerate his development on the court while learning NBA-style basketball.
“Now, I have to take the next big step,” said Sotto. “We have a lot of options available, but after much thought, I think this option is the best route to get closer to that dream faster. here [in the G League]I will play with some of the best and have even more resources and support. “
Sotto reiterated that he was totally focused on reaching the NBA, knowing that many Filipinos also share his dream.
“I am very happy and grateful because it means that many of you are following me on this journey,” said Sotto, who last played in the Philippines two years ago when he led the Ateneo Blue Eaglets to the UAAP junior title.
Big responsibility
“I understand that I have a lot of responsibility [to] all my compatriots who dream of seeing a Filipino in the NBA. “
In addition to Green, who reportedly selected Sotto to join him on the show, the G-League also attracted Isaiah Todd and Daishen Nix. Details of the team the prospects will play for will be announced soon, the G-League said.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has expressed support for Sotto’s move, but SBP President Al Panlilio was unsure whether Sotto will remain available for national team duties, particularly at the Fiba 2023 World Cup, that the country is organizing.
“Well, we’re still assuming that it will be available for [the] Gilas [Pilipinas program]”Panlilio said.” He has constantly told us (SBP officials) that he will be available, but [after] this [development], we really don’t know what will happen next. “
“If he progresses, from a basketball point of view, I will be very happy for him,” said Panlilio. “And if he does make it to the NBA, then that would be a momentous occasion for our country.”
Gain confidence
The SBP is expected to contact Sotto to resolve potential scheduling conflicts with his latest move and his attempt to become part of the country’s national basketball program.
Sotto said he has been able to gain confidence by playing against the best basketball players from around the world in the United States last year.
“I worked to improve my basketball skills, develop my body and gain the confidence to play against the best basketball players in the world,” said Sotto. “My wish is that you continue to support me and my new teammates @jalen @zaytodd and DaishenNix and pray for us and hope for all our success and health as a team.”
“I am very proud and excited to begin my professional career with the NBA G League Select Team. I look forward to continuing your support.
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