Kai Sotto standing tall—literally and figuratively– against New Zealand and Hong Kong was a delight to witness for Gilas Pilipinas and the rest of the Filipino basketball fans.
No more “ginulat ang mundo” hype because Kai Sotto stamped his class for the world to see.
Sotto’s more mature and well-rounded play was on full display as Gilas Pilipinas claimed a ticket for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 in Saudi Arabia.
[ALSO READ: Gilas Pilipinas formally clinch FIBA Asia Cup 2025 slot]
“Turned my wound into wisdom, that pain became useful. Turned that pain into passion, then made it happen,” Sotto posted on Instagram on Tuesday, November 26.
The 7-foot-3 center was simply unstoppable in two Gilas wins at home that completed another window sweep in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers.
Sotto averaged 16.5 points, 13 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in those two key wins, none more impressive than being the difference-maker in Gilas’ breakthrough upset of New Zealand.
He put up his best game yet in national tri-colors in that game with 19 markers, 10 boards, and seven dimes in 33 minutes of play.
Gilas head coach team head coach Tim was all praised for his big man after that win, raving at Sotto’s playmaking and other skillset he brought to the table.
[ALSO READ: 'He's doing it all': Kai Sotto stars in Gilas Pilipinas' breakthrough win vs. New Zealand]
Even his teammate in Justin Brownlee felt that the 22-year-old is good enough to play in the NBA.
“I feel like he is good enough to play in the NBA, in my true honest opinion,” Brownlee told.
[ALSO READ: Kai Sotto is NBA ready, says Gilas Pilipinas teammate Justin Brownlee]
Heading to the November window, Sotto was the tournament leader in double-doubles. And after the games against New Zealand and Hong Kong, Kaiju reamined on top with his 15.5 ppg, and 12.5 rpg statline.
He is also fifth in blocks--making nine total rejections in four games.
While the third and final window will not start until February of next year, Sotto aims to carry his fiery form for the Koshigaya Alphas in the Japan B.League.