Kai Sotto’s long journey will take him to the biggest of stages.
The 7-foot-3 Filipino teenager has declared that he will be entering the upcoming 2022 National Basketball Association draft, Thursday morning.
The draft is set to take place on Thursday, June 23 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
“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,” read Sotto’s Instagram post.
“To all the fans both 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!” the Ateneo High School product continued.
“I have declared for the 2022 NBA Draft. Please pray for and support me during my quest to fulfill my ultimate dream. ”
Sotto also thanked his parents Ervin and Pamel and his management team East West Private.
It was just two years ago when Sotto decided to turn pro, joining the first batch of G League Ignite. He was not able to play a game in the NBA’s developmental league.
Photo from G League Ignite
Last year, Sotto signed with Adelaide in the National Basketball League-Australia as a Special Restricted Player.
In his first season with the 36ers, Sotto averaged 7.52 points on 50-percent shooting with 4.48 rebounds.
Photo from Adelaide 36ers
Yesterday, he was crowned NBL’s Fans’ Most Valuable Player — an award decided by a fan poll conducted online.
Sotto will look to join LaMelo Ball, Josh Giddey, and RJ Hampton as young basketball prospects who played a season in the Oceania league before entering the NBA draft.
