Filipino young gun Kai Sotto declares for NBA Draft

Kai Sotto has declared for the NBA Draft, as he looks to become the Philippines’ first home-grown player to appear in the league.

The 19-year-old made the announcement on the back of winning the fans’ MVP award in Australia’s National Basketball League, after an impressive debut season with the Adelaide 36ers.

“I have declared for the 2022 NBA Draft,” Sotto wrote in a social media post. “Please pray for and support me during my quest to fulfil my ultimate dream.”

The 2.16-metre centre has averaged 7.52 points per game in the 2021-22 season with the 36ers, as well as 0.52 assists and 4.48 rebounds, along with a field goal percentage of 50 per cent.

Sotto’s declaration for the draft shot him straight into ESPN’s list of the top 100 prospects for the year. It came days after he and the 36ers wrapped up their season, and his team lent their support on Twitter.

“We’re backing you all the way, Kai,” a post from the 36ers said, and he reciprocated with his own message of thanks on Instagram.

“Thank you Adelaide! Thank you, Australia! It has been an unforgettable year,” Sotto wrote in his post.

“To the 36ers management, my teammates, my coaching staff and my agent Joel Bell, I am a better man and a better professional player than a year ago, because you all took me under your wing and challenged and mentored me to live up to expectations.

“To all the fans old and new who support and even travel to games, and have lifted me up on this incredible journey, I am so blessed and inspired when I read your messages and hear your cheers.

“An athlete like me doesn’t get to a certain point of his journey without the help and support of many coaches, trainers, sponsors, media and even the army of bloggers who write about me endlessly.”