Chot Reyes admits being clueless on Kai Sotto’s condition

Kai Sotto has already been in the country for a week but the 7-foot-3 big man has yet to train with Gilas Pilipinas.

With barely a month remaining until the FIBA World Cup, head coach Chot Reyes stated on Wednesday, July 26 that he has no idea when Sotto will practice with the national team as he continues to experience back issues.

“It’s a big puzzle. It’s a really big question for us now. I think Kai has some issues with his lower back,” said Reyes. “Our team doctor, he checked him out, doesn’t seem to find any functional or structural problem.”

“Although his people say that he has an MRI and that he has to do some therapy. We’re trying to get hold of the MRI results, but up to now, we still don’t have them,” he added.

Sotto injured his back during the first half of Orlando’s final game in the NBA Summer League against the Boston Celtics.

He arrived in the Philippines on July 19, but has not yet practiced and made his first public appearance on Tuesday, July 25, during a motivational rally for the national team.

“I really don’t know when Kai will come to practice,” said Reyes.

“We’re not worrying about it. We’re not thinking about it too much. We’re just moving forward with the players who are here.”

After playing in the Summer League, Australia’s National Basketball League, and the Japan B. League, Sotto is expected to play a key role in the World Cup alongside Jordan Clarkson, who has ultimately committed to playing for the country.

In four FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifier appearances, Sotto compiled averages of 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.3 blocks.