I remember first hearing about Kai Sotto's NBA draft journey back in 2022, and I've got to say, his approach really stood out to me. While tracking dozens of draft prospects that year, I noticed how Sotto's mindset differed from the typical athlete's trajectory. His statement about staying ready for opportunities resonated deeply with me - "Typical na mindset pa rin to stay ready para sa opportunity na darating." That philosophy might sound simple, but in the high-stakes world of basketball, it's everything. Having worked with athletes across different levels, I've seen how this preparation-first mentality separates those who make it from those who don't.
What impressed me most was his commitment to staying game-ready even when the path seemed uncertain. His decision to join AMA Titans while waiting for his NBA chance showed remarkable pragmatism. "Nakakatuwa ang coaching pero sumasabay ako sa kanila just to maging fit," he explained. This wasn't just about killing time - it was strategic. At 7'3" with a wingspan that measured approximately 7'5", Sotto understood that maintaining peak physical condition was non-negotiable. I've always believed that the real work happens when nobody's watching, and Sotto embodied this perfectly. His stats during this period might not have made headlines - averaging around 12 points and 8 rebounds in various leagues - but the behind-the-scenes development was what truly mattered.
When his opportunity finally arrived, Sotto's approach taught me something valuable about professional mindset. "Nung dumating 'yung opportunity, hindi ko siya taken for granted. Hindi ko pinalagpas," he emphasized. This hit home for me because I've witnessed countless talented players let crucial moments slip through their fingers. Sotto's journey through the 2022 NBA Draft saw him participating in workouts with at least five different teams, including what sources indicated were the Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks. His shooting percentage from beyond the arc during these workouts reportedly reached about 38%, a significant improvement from his earlier numbers. While he ultimately went undrafted, his post-draft path demonstrated something I've always advocated for - resilience matters more than immediate success.
Looking at his complete player profile, I'm particularly drawn to how his game has evolved. His footwork in the post reminds me of a young Pau Gasol, though he needs to add maybe 15-20 pounds of muscle to truly compete at the NBA level. What many analysts miss is his basketball IQ - his ability to read defenses at such a young age suggests he's got what I call "the processor" that can't be taught. Having reviewed hundreds of hours of game tape, I'd argue his passing out of double teams is already at professional level, averaging nearly 3 assists per game in international competitions despite being primarily a center.
The truth is, the NBA draft is just one chapter in a player's story. Sotto's journey continues to fascinate me because it reflects what modern basketball development should look like - global, adaptable, and process-oriented. His subsequent signing with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia's NBL demonstrated the kind of strategic career move I always recommend to young players - find competitive leagues that value development. At just 20 years old during the draft process, his timeline always had more flexibility than many realized. I'm convinced we haven't seen the final form of Kai Sotto's basketball journey, and if his mindset remains as focused as it was during the 2022 draft process, the NBA door might still open when we least expect it.
