Sotto will be an important piece for Gilas' FIBA World Cup chances.
Good news for Gilas Pilipinas fans.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced on Tuesday that Kai Sotto has received clearance from doctors to play for the national team as the FIBA World Cup approaches.
“He’s been cleared to play. That’s good news. We’re looking forward to seeing him play also in the friendlies,” SBP President Al Panlilio said during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum.
This is definitely welcome news for Gilas with just 10 days left before the start of the FIBA World Cup.
The 7-foot-3 Sotto had been limited in his trainings with the national team after dealing with a back injury.
Sotto had not been medically cleared prior to the SBP’s announcement. As a result, he was unable to do full-contact trainings.
Aside from Sotto, Panlilio also disclosed that Scottie Thompson is fit to play, but “will need to get his groove back” after recovering from a metacarpal fracture in his right hand.
With Sotto and Thompson back in the fray, Gilas will need to further ramp up its preparations ahead of their opening match on August 25 against the Dominican Republic.
For now, fans will have to wait as well for the final 12 of the national team—but certainly many are expecting both Sotto and Thompson to be there.
(GM)