CTTO
MANILA – Ray Parks Jr. and Kai Sotto are set to start fresh journeys in the Japan B.League’s 2024-25 season with new teams.
Ray Parks Jr., formerly with the Nagoya Dolphins, will now play for Osaka Evessa, as announced by the team on Wednesday. “Looking forward to this new chapter. Excited to represent the city of Osaka, the fans, and the organization. Come out and support us with all of your hearts,” the Gilas Pilipinas guard said in a statement.
During his stint with the Dolphins in the 2023-24 season, Parks averaged 8.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, helping his team reach the semifinals of the league.
Meanwhile, Kai Sotto will be transitioning from the Yokohama B-Corsairs to the Koshigaya Alphas. “I’m very excited to join the Koshigaya Alphas! Coming from B2, I know this team wants to prove that they belong in the B1 so I’m really up for the challenge to help this team win games and reach the next level,” the Gilas center said in a statement.
Sotto, who averaged 12.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks last season, added, “I wanna get better and improve my game. That’s why I chose the Alphas because I know they will really help me. Can’t wait to go to Koshigaya and see the city, and especially see and meet the fans.”
In addition to these moves in Japan, Justin Gutang is set to play for the Seoul Samsung Thunders in the Korean Basketball League. The former College of St. Benilde standout, who played for the Changwon LG Sakers last year, posted averages of 8.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.
As these players embark on new challenges, fans eagerly await their contributions and successes with their respective teams.