GETTING benched for the second straight game is certainly a backbreaker, right? Not for
Kai Sotto.
“I’m just trying to show the coaches that I’m a good teammate and that I’m a good player.
I’ll be ready whenever they call my name,” Sotto said. “I’ll be a positive guy on the corner,
on the bench.
“I’m just like a sponge— just trying to learn from everybody, from all the things that’s
happening to us,” he added.
The 7-foot-3 center, bidding to become the first homegrown Filipino to gain NBA foothold,
spoke after the Orlando Magic absorbed an 86-108 ripping at the hands of the Indiana
Pacers yesterday in the NBA Summer League where Sotto was not fielded anew at the
Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.
Sotto, 21, is taking everything in stride.
“I feel like everywhere I go I represent the Philippines, so I just have to be aware of my
actions,” Sotto said.
“As I said, you know, here in the Summer League, I just got to put in the work and stay
ready when the coach calls my name.”
Sotto said although he has not seen minutes so far, he is having a fun experience in his
Summer League stint.
“It’s pretty good so far. (I’ve) been enjoying the process. We started training in Orlando and
then now in Vegas, so it’s been fun,” he said. “(I’m) surrounded by really good guys and
coaches. It’s been a fun experience so far.”
The Dylan Murphy-mentored side will next take on the New York Knicks tomorrow.
The Magic will then battle the Portland Trail Blazers on July 14 before winding up their
campaign with a still unannounced squad.
Sotto, 21, worked out with the New York Knicks, Utah Jazz and Dallas Mavericks.
Hiroshima has signed Sotto to a contract extension for the Japan B. League’s 2023-24
season. (M. Jugado, Malaya)