NBA Draft: Kai Sotto among standouts in Basketball Without Borders, says analyst

Philippine teenage basketball star Kai Sotto has been considered as one of the standouts of the recent NBA All Star Basketball Without Borders Global Camp, according to a long-time NBA draft analyst.

Jonathan Givony, a draft analyst for Draft Express, noted in a recent online report Sotto’s versatility, saying he has an impressive skill set for a player who is 7-foot-2.

“Sotto has gotten into better shape since arriving to the U.S. and possesses a versatile skill set for a player his size: scoring in the post with either hand, handling the ball impressively, good court vision and range on a jump shot that extends beyond the 3-point line,” commented Givony on the potential of Sotto.

Though playing center for most of his young career, the 17-year-old Sotto has learned how to vary his game by adding more skills like foot work, athleticism, and agility.

For his age, Sotto already has good passing and playmaking skills, and is also good with his shotblock timing.

But Givony was also straightforward with Sotto’s inconsistencies, noting that he was a bit slower compared to other players and that bigger competitors overpowered him.

These are some of the aspects of his game the former Ateneo Blue Eaglet has to improve to be able to solidify his reputation heading into college and possibly, the NBA.

“Sotto didn’t look ready for the level of physicality and intensity he encountered in the camp scrimmages, as he was scored on at will by stronger players, looked lethargic getting back on defense and settled for too many low-percentage shots. Sotto did show nice timing rotating for blocks thanks in part to his massive 9-foot-3 standing reach,” noted Givony.