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KAI Sotto is clear to play and expected to join Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA World Cup next week.
“Kai’s doctor and our SBP doctors already cleared Kai to play. That’s good news,” said Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al Panlilio during the special session of the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) forum on Tuesday at the Meralco function room in Pasig City.
Panlilio said that the 7-foot-3, 21-year-old NBA aspirant is already joining the Gilas scrimmage but is still uncertain about his presence in the Gilas remaining tune-up game before the World Cup opening on August 25 at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
“We make sure that he’s fully recovered from his back injury, but the doctor’s order is a welcome development,” added Panlilio.
Sotto is included in the 21-man line-up, but coach Chot Reyes is keeping his cards off his chest if the young center could be included in the official 12-man squad.
While Sotto’s health is on a day-to-day basis, NBA star Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz already committed to play for Gilas. The NBA Sixth Man awardee arrived in Manila just a week ago.
“Filipino basketball fans are ecstatic to see Kai in Gilas uniform. Yung nangyari sa kanya sa NBA D-League playing Dallas Mavericks ay malaking bagay kahit limited ang playing time niya. Malaking impact sa Gilas ang makalaro siya,” said SBP Executive Director Sonny Barrios.
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