The NBA remains the ultimate dream, but there are options for the Filipino big man.
Kai Sotto has the tools, mentality, and dedication to make it to the NBA. Since he came into the Philippines' limelight, the 7-foot-3 Filipino center has carried the entire nation's hope of becoming the very first homegrown talent in the world's top basketball league.
Now in the NBA Summer League, it seems like the NBA dream is within grasp. And yet, it also feels so far. Sotto has yet to be given minutes, to the frustration of fans. Although, the 21 years old remains optimistic and takes the process as a learning experience.
Of course, NBA remains the ultimate goal. But in the instance of a heartbreaking development where no teams offer Kai a chance soon, it won't be the end of the world.
Here are the top five destinations where Sotto should bounce back in case that happens.
NBA G League
One could argue that Sotto's best chance to enter the NBA was when he was tapped to play for the NBA G League Ignite in 2021. To this day, the development league remains a top training ground for NBA hopefuls. Several league players have spent their time in the G League before breaking out in the big stage, including our very own Jordan Clarkson.
That list of alums provides for quite a company. Aside from Clarkson, NBA All-Stars slash champions in Khris Middleton, Pascal Siakam, and Danny Green have all been to the developmental league.
Europe
The European wave has hit the NBA and is currently changing the landscape of the league and basketball itself. The ascendance of the likes of Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Doncic to top-dog status is proof that the formula in Europe works. Should Sotto take his talent there, he will also learn things that will benefit Gilas Pilipinas because the European style of play is a staple in FIBA tournaments.
A legendary PBA big man in Eric Menk has argued before that Europe is the way to go for Kai. Just be ready to take it to the chin if he says, "I told you so."
Japan
Japan is always an option and is arguably the current hottest destination for Philippine basketball stars. Sotto himself is still signed with the Hiroshima Dragonflies of the Japan B.League. The Pinoy pride will probably return to the Land of the Rising Sun if he falls short of signing with an NBA squad this year.
Philippines
There's no place like home. Sotto could just come back, apply for the PBA draft, and challenge June Mar Fajardo's reign as the top center of the league. The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) could also build the dedicated Gilas Pilipinas pool centered around the young big man so the country won't have problems with the national team anymore.
Australia
Sotto's time in Australia's NBL is better than his current history in Japan. He had some moments down south and there are a handful of NBA players who took their time in the NBL before having a shot back in the Association. Considering the level of the tournament, Australia will be a good option too.
(GM)