Kai Sotto is no longer with Yokohama.
This is because the loan from Hiroshima to Yokohama expired on Tuesday.
“We would like to inform you that the loan period for Kai Sotto, who joined the team from Hiroshima Dragonflies on a loan basis, has expired,” read the B-Corsairs’ statement.
Sotto was loaned from the Dragonflies to the B-Corsairs last December.
In 34 games played with Yokohama, the 7-foot-3 Filipino big man averaged 12.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, forming a formidable partnership with Yuki Kawamura.
It was with Yokohama that Sotto got his big break.
“Thank you, Yokohama B-Corsairs, for giving me a chance to show what I can do in this game that I love the most,” read Sotto’s post.
“Thank you to all the fans and boosters for all your love and support! Nothing but blessings and fun memories this year.”
In a separate statement, the Dragonflies also disclosed that it won’t be renewing Sotto after his contract expires on June 15.
“We would like to inform you that due to the expiration of Kai Sotto’s contract, he will be leaving the team at the end of this season. Sotto joined Hiroshima midway through last season as a naturalized player for a club that did not have an Asian quota. Unfortunately, due to a lower back injury before the start of this season, he was not in perfect condition and was unsure of his ability to contribute to the team. Therefore, he took advantage of the loan transfer system and played for the Yokohama B-Corsairs,” the statement read.
“It is unfortunate that he has not played a single game for Hiroshima this season and has not been able to contribute to the club throughout the year. We feel a sense of responsibility for him and wish Sotto all the best in his career, which is full of potential.”
According to Gilas head coach Tim Cone, Sotto is preparing himself for another shot at the NBA.
“He is actually, I think, right now in an NBA camp,” he said.
“He is going to the States, doing some NBA things as we speak, and he will be back on the 16th or 17th of June to join us on the 21st.”
(C) B.League
Meanwhile, Dwight Ramos looks to embark on a third year with Hokkaido after re-signing with the team.
“I’m excited to come back for my third season in Hokkaido! I’m ready to make this next season the best one yet and excited to get to work with my teammates and coaches. Thank you to the fans that always support our team and me. I appreciate it, and you make me feel excited to come back again!” said Ramos in a statement.
Ramos averaged 10.72 points, 3.81 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game this season.
