Since debuting at the 2016 SEABA Championship, Kai Sotto has received the responsibility of acting as one of the cornerstones of the Gilas Pilipinas program for years to come.
It’s a duty the 19-year-old has taken to heart. He has stated numerous times that he remains committed to Gilas for the future.
And he is doing so despite previously having been part of G League Ignite, and now part of the Adelaide 36ers.
The 7-foot-3 skyscraper admits that it is hard to balance life as a pro is with being a national team player. He then looks to follow the footsteps of one ex-Gilas player — Andray Blatche.
“Andry Blatche is a legend, a big-time player. Especially for Philippines basketball,” Sotto told FIBA.com.
“And yes, he is a role model, and I would like to be that good and vital for the Gilas squad.”
Back in 2014, Blatche was coming off a stint with the Brooklyn Nets. He then became a naturalized Filipino, making him eligible for Gilas.
Blatche still had responsibilities with CBA clubs Xinjiang Flying Tigers and Tianjin Gold Lions. Still, the 6-foot-11 stretch big made sure to join Gilas in their tournaments, whether SEABA, FIBA Asia, or World Cups.
From 2014-19, Blatche only missed one FIBA Asia Cup back in 2017. He cited security reasons in Lebanon and a suspension meted by FIBA after the Gilas-Boomers brawl.
Yes, Blatche may come in late and sometimes out of shape, but he still arrived.
And Sotto is looking to be that dedicated to the program like Blatche.
