SBP exec expects hero's welcome for Kai Sotto if he chooses return to Gilas

PBA chairman and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive Ricky Vargas expects a hero's welcome for Filipino NBA prospect Kai Sotto, who went undrafted in the just concluded 2022 NBA Draft.

Vargas was among the millions of Filipinos hoping to see the 7-foot-3 Sotto cracking the NBA, but no team selected the second generation cager, who had also seen action for the Adelaide 36ers in Australia's NBL.

Despite the setback, Sotto could now become available to join the Philippine national men's basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, in its preparation for the FIBA World Cup next year.

"Not only Gilas, but the whole nation awaits and welcomes Kai with open arms to play for the Philippine team," wrote Vargas in a Viber message to GMA News Online.

"Kai is a game-changer, inspiration, role model for the national team and his return home sends a strong message of service and love for flag and country. World Cup '23 is just around the corner."

Sotto played for Gilas Pilipinas in two windows last year, where the Philippines went undefeated at home and even defeated arch rival South Korea twice.

He was also a part of the FIBA Olympic Qualifier team, but the young squad coached by Tab Baldwin was overpowered by their more experienced counterparts.

Sotto is one of the holdovers of the squad along with Dwight Ramos, Thirdy Ravena, Will Navarro, and injured naturalized player Angelo Kouame.

On the heels of the recent NBA Rookie Draft, Vargas asked for support for Sotto.

"Lets all of us send our love and shout out to Kai he belongs with us. Dito muna siya hangang World Cup 2023 and I assure he will be better and (it's) worth his while," added Vargas.

—JMB, GMA News