Kai Sotto declares for 2022 NBA Draft after Filipino star wins Fans’ MVP award in Australia’s NBL
- The 2.16-metre centre is looking to become the Philippines’ first home-grown player in the NBA
- Sotto thanks Adelaide 36ers for ‘unforgettable’ season, saying ‘I’m a better man and a better professional because you took me under your wing’
Kai Sotto has declared for the 2022 NBA Draft, as he looks to become the Philippines’ first home-grown player to appear in the league.
The 19-year-old made the announcement on the back of winning the Fans’ MVP award in Australia’s National Basketball League, after an impressive debut season with the Adelaide 36ers.
“I have declared for the 2022 NBA Draft,” Sotto wrote in a social media post. “Please pray for and support me during my quest to fulfil my ultimate dream.”
The 2.16-metre (7ft 1in) centre has averaged 7.52 points per game in the 2021-22 season with the 36ers, as well as 0.52 assists and 4.48 rebounds, with a field goal percentage of 50 per cent.
Sotto’s declaration for the draft shot him straight into ESPN’s list of the top 100 prospects for 2022. It came days after he and the 36ers wrapped up their season, and his team lent their support on Twitter.
