Duo of Edu, Sotto gives Batang Gilas better chance
There is a ton of anticipation for the Batang Gilas team set to embark in the 2018 FIBA U18 Asian Championship in Nonthaburi, Thailand next week. Boasting a lineup of immense talent, size, and versatility, all eyes will be on the young Gilas squad.
To make things even more interesting, the duo of 6-foot-10 AJ Edu and 7-foot-1 Kai Sotto, two of the best up and coming talents in the country -- and not to mention the tallest among their peers, will play together on the international stage for the very first time.
"I'm definitely very excited. This is something I'm looking forward for a while," beamed Edu, who is set to make his debut for Batang Gilas after representing the country at the FIBA 3x3 U17 World Cup last year. "I'm excited with the country as well. I'm looking forward to it."
Edu arrived in the Philippines earlier this month in preparation for the U18 tournament. The FilipinoNigerian admitted that he had to through a period of adjustment when he got to the country.
"At first, it was really difficult to be honest. First few days, I [was] struggling a bit," he barred. "But right now, I'm used to it, getting adapted, getting used to the style of play. I'm really enjoying it right now."
Fortunately for Edu, he is already familiar with his fellow twin tower Kai Sotto. The two big men met two years ago when Edu practiced with Ateneo.
"He's fun to be with on and off the court," shared Sotto. "Hopefully, our chemistry continues to grow since we're going to be together on the court. That's a big help if our relationship grows. Once we have that, we'll share that to the entire group."
"It's building very well and its building faster than I thought it would. It's looking good," echoed Edu on the team's budding chemistry.
The two big men can alternate the center position and fortify the paint with their length. On offense, the pair are a one-two punch that can showcase an array of post moves.
"AJ is bigger, lengthier, more athletic, and more skilled," Sotto graciously said about his frontcourt buddy. "The difference with AJ is his size and athleticism. He's special because of his game. He's not your usual center because he's faster."
As Sotto mentioned, Edu can get to the paint swiftly. He has a face-up game and can use his quick first step to get passed slower centers. Sotto, on the other hand, is efficient back-to-the-basket and has a midrange jumper to complement his inside game. —
ESPN5