MANILA, Philippines — At 23, Kai Sotto is taking a path to the NBA that experts say he should have considered years ago, as he prepares to play college basketball in the United States and likely delay his immediate involvement with Gilas Pilipinas.
SBP President Ricky Vargas fully supports the move, emphasizing that Sotto’s dream of becoming the first full-blooded Filipino in the NBA aligns with the federation’s goals. “His dream is our dream, too,” Vargas told sports editors on Monday.
Sotto sat out the most recent FIBA World Cup qualifying window, during which Gilas suffered a 69-66 loss to New Zealand and a 93-66 defeat to an Australian B-team at Mall of Asia Arena. Vargas noted that Sotto’s presence could have made a difference, but the federation remains committed to backing him in pursuit of his NBA aspirations.
Also highlighted at the SBP dinner were updates on Bennie Boatwright’s naturalization, now in progress after gaining Congressional approval in December. The move could bolster the Philippines’ lineup for the Asian Games in Japan, allowing players like Boatwright and Justin Brownlee to join Gilas alongside top talents from the PBA and other Asian leagues.
Vargas underscored that final roster decisions will rest with head coach Tim Cone, while the federation ensures support for players seeking both national and international opportunities.