Kai Sotto gives Gilas Pilipinas timely boost after two-year absence

BIG. Kai Sotto in action for Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers. FIBA Star big man Kai Sotto shows up at Gilas Pilipinas' practice as the national team gears up for its two-game homestand in the fourth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas just got a much-needed shot in the arm. Kai Sotto returns to national team action for the first time in two years as he reinforces the squad in the fourth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, where the Philippines will host Iran and Jordan this August. A Facebook post by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas on Tuesday, August 18, showed the 7-foot-3 big man joining the Nationals in practice at the San Miguel Corporation Sports Complex in Pasig City. His comeback is an encouraging development to the Filipinos, who face an uphill climb in the second round with a 2-4 card, tied with Syria for fifth in Group E. Australia (6-0), Iran (5-1), Jordan (5-1), and New Zealand (4-2) boast of better records. The Philippines needs to finish in the top three or emerge as the best fourth-placed team across the two groups to secure a World Cup berth. Sotto last donned the national colors in 2024 when he helped Gilas Pilipinas win its first four games, including a breakthrough victory over New Zealand, in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, posting 15.5 points, 12.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.3 blocks. However, the 24-year-old star suffered a knee injury in January 2025. Since Sotto got injured, the Nationals have posted a 4-9 record in FIBA play, losing to New Zealand four times and to Australia three times over that stretch. With Sotto back in the tow, the Philippines eyes a sweep of its homestand as it battles Jordan and Iran on August 28 and 30, respectively, at the Mall of Asia Arena. – Rappler.com How does this make you feel? Loading