MANILA, Philippines – Kai Sotto is good to go.
That is according to Gilas Pilipinas team manager Richard del Rosario as Sotto got cleared to play in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, where the Philippines will host New Zealand and Hong Kong.
Sotto is expected to suit up in the two-game homestand after being put under concussion protocols following a hit to the head in a Japan B. League game on November 9.
The 7-foot-3 big man already saw action for the national team in its 96-82 win over PBA squad Meralco in a tuneup game on Monday, November 18.
A key player for head coach Tim Cone, Sotto averaged 15.5 points, 12.5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2.5 blocks in the Filipinos’ first-window sweep of Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei.
With Sotto in tow, the Philippines eyes a breakthrough win over New Zealand on Thursday, November 21, at the Mall of Asia Arena as they break their tie for solo top spot in Group B.
The Nationals will then tangle with Hong Kong on Sunday, November 24, at the same venue.
– Rappler.com