Gilas Pilipinas is currently facing injury challenges as it heads into the February window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers.
The Philippines, which will play Chinese Taipei at home on February 20 and New Zealand in Auckland on February 23, will be without Kai Sotto.
The 7-foot-3 big man tore his anterior cruciate ligament two weeks ago, ruling him out for the upcoming window.
In addition, Kevin Quiambao will be sidelined for two weeks due to a Grade 1 right ankle sprain his Korean Basketball League debut last Sunday.
The 6-foot-6 forward’s expected recovery time will allow him to return in time for the window.
However, this would be a risky proposition for his club team, Goyang Sono.
Gilas head coach Tim Cone told Tiebreaker Times that they are closely monitoring the situation.
“We need to investigate on our own and talk to KQ before any decision is made,” Cone said.
Cone expressed sadness about Sotto’s injury but emphasized their resolve to carry on without him.
“I’m heartbroken for him, but Kai is young, still only 22, and has a lot of basketball still ahead of him. We will try to soldier on without him while he rehabs,” Cone added.
Cone is, however, looking forward to the return of Jamie Malonzo.
The 6-foot-7 forward has only appeared in one game for Gilas in the qualifiers so far, and his return is eagerly anticipated.
“Jamie, on the other hand, should be ready to go in Feb,” Cone said.
