Kai Sotto has suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament, the Koshigaya Alphas announced on Wednesday, Jan. 8.

The Filipino giant tweaked his left knee when he attempted for a shot but dropped awkwardly during the first quarter of his team's 77-79 loss to the Mikawa Seahorses last Sunday, Jan. 5.

Sotto did not return to the game but watched the action from the sideline.

In an Instagram post, the 22-year-old player was emotional and described the unfortunate news as the "darkest day" of his basketball career.

“The worst way to start the year, might be the darkest day of my basketball career, when I was told I tore my ACL. Tough to let this one sink in. I appreciate all the love and support everyone has given me these past few days. I know God has a better plan for me, and we just have to keep going,” Sotto wrote.

It will be a big blow for the 7-foot-3 center as he is currently enjoying a surge in his B.League season, averaging 13.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game.

Sotto will also be out in B.League's Asia Rising Star Game on Jan 18.

His absence, which could last from six to eight months, could also hurt Gilas Pilipinas which is preparing for the last window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers next month. The Nationals are facing Taiwan on Feb. 20, and New Zealand three days after.

Without him, Gilas head coach Tim Cone will be utilizing backup center Japeth Aguilar along with fellow big Mason Amos.