MACAU — Even without suiting up in the East Asia Super League (EASL) Finals, Kai Sotto continues to draw attention, with international coaches taking notice of his potential.
Iurgi Caminos, head coach of the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots, praised the Filipino big man, calling him “different” and one of the most special players he has seen in the past year.
“Kai Sotto is different. He’s just different. He’s the most special Filipino I saw over the past year. His size and skills are good,” Caminos said at Studio City Event Center on Friday night.
Sotto, who plays for the Koshigaya Alphas in the B.League, has been steadily making his mark overseas. Caminos, known for closely studying the game, said he has been monitoring Sotto’s development while preparing for his own team’s campaigns.
The Spanish coach noted, however, that injuries have slowed Sotto’s progress, preventing him from fully showcasing his abilities. “We haven’t seen his full potential yet but he’s a special player,” he said, adding that the 7-foot-3 center’s future will largely depend on his health and consistency.
“If he’s able to be healthy regularly, he’ll be good,” Caminos said, pointing out that continued playing time in Japan will be crucial for Sotto’s growth.
So far in the 2025–26 season, Sotto is averaging 11.5 points and 8.9 rebounds through 13 games, continuing to build his case as one of the Philippines’ most promising talents on the international stage.