Until this writing, we have not read the SBP (Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas) formally announce the inclusion of 7’3” center Kai Sotto into the Gilas lineup.
The FIBA WC is only 11 days away and there is still no contract signing between this all-important player and the SBP.
According to published media reports, the SBP is keenly waiting for the medical results of the MRI procedure but which have not been submitted by Kai Sotto and his handlers.
Gilas team manager Butch Antonio stands firm in echoing the SBP position that until and unless the MRI procedure clears Sotto of his back spasm injury, the young Pinoy skyscraper may not become part of Gilas.
The former Ateneo Blue Eagle suffered the injury during his participation in the Las Vegas Summer League as a member of the Orlando Magic. He saw action in only one game out of four.
Pity.
Pinoy fans here and around the globe monitoring Sotto’s health condtion may now be starting to doubt the guy’s fitness to wear the country’s national red, white and blue jersey.
Utah Jazz star guard Jordan Clarkson is already actively scrimmaging with the rest of the Gilas pool members while trying to ease jet lag pains.
The SBP requires Sotto’s medical doctor to submit the boy’s MRI to the SBP official physician for a joint declaration of their findings.
Although he has announced that he is committed to play for Gilas in the FIBA WC, Sotto is not being allowed by the coaching staff and team officials to engage in scrimmages until a meduical greenlight comes on.
The wait is somewhat exasperating and anyone’s patience could thin out.
Of course, Reyes, Tim Cone and the SBP fellas will endure the pain because Kai Sotto’s availability (or exclusion) spells a huge difference in the country’s aspirations for a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
After all, Kai is familiar with the coaching philosophy of Chot.
Even if the NBA aspirant may miss the on-going scrimmages for as long as he emerges healthy when the healing period is over, Kai will easily adapt to Reyes’ designed plays.
Let’s just hope that Kai beats the deadline with “flying colors.”
Of course, shouldn’t this be our collective prayer? (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com). GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
