MANILA, Philippines – Filipino basketball player Kai Sotto has been confirmed to have a torn ACL in his left knee, an injury that will keep him out for the rest of the 2025 B.League season.
Sotto sustained the injury during the Koshigaya Alphas’ game against the SeaHorses Mikawa on Sunday. The game ended with a narrow 79-77 defeat for Sotto’s team.
The incident occurred during the first quarter, approximately six minutes and 20 seconds into the game. Sotto, who is 22 years old, was attempting a post-up move when the injury happened.
Reports reveal that Sotto grimaced in pain as he clutched his knee, prompting immediate medical attention and removal from the game.
The Koshigaya Alphas, in an official statement, announced that Sotto would need an estimated recovery period of six months.
This duration effectively rules him out of the current B.League season. The team expressed their support for Sotto, wishing him a speedy recovery and emphasizing their commitment to providing the necessary medical care.
Sotto himself addressed the situation through social media, describing the injury as potentially “the darkest day” of his basketball career. He shared his disappointment, noting that the injury comes at a time when he was focused on advancing his game and contributing significantly to his team.
Despite the setback, Sotto remains determined to overcome the injury with a positive mindset and dedication to his rehabilitation process.
The injury not only affects Sotto’s career in the B.League but also raises concerns regarding his participation in upcoming international competitions, including events where he represents the Philippines in the national team.
His absence will be felt in both domestic and international games, as the young star is regarded as a promising talent in Philippine basketball.
Sotto joined the Koshigaya Alphas earlier in the season and had been performing well, showcasing his potential and skill on the court.
The injury marks a significant interruption in his career, but medical experts suggest that with appropriate rehabilitation, athletes with ACL injuries can return to their sports without lasting impairments.
The B.League season continues without Sotto, and the Alphas will need to find ways to adjust their strategies to account for his absence. Teammates and fans have rallied in support of Sotto, sending messages of encouragement and optimism for his recovery.