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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider Kai Sotto boosts Gilas for crucial games vs Iran, Jordan

Kai Sotto boosts Gilas for crucial games vs Iran, Jordan

Published Aug 17, 2026 11:56 pm

At A Glance

  • Gilas Pilipinas is getting a big boost for the August window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers as star center Kai Sotto finally showed up in the first day of the national team practice at the SMC Sports Facility on Monday, Aug. 17.

Gilas Pilipinas is getting a big boost for the August window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers as star center Kai Sotto finally showed up in the first day of the national team practice at the SMC Sports Facility on Monday, Aug. 17.

The 7-foot-3 center, after missing the last window of the qualifiers to focus on his bid to make it to the NBA via the NCAA route, was a pleasant surprise in the Gilas practice, confirming his participation in the pair of crucial games against Iran and Jordan.

“We had our first day of practice, and it was great, especially because Kai joined us in practice and is taking a break from his schedule to play for us in the window,” confirmed Gilas head coach Tim Cone.

Sotto’s return to national duty comes at a time when the Nationals are facing manpower woes particularly on the frontline following the absence of Quentin Millora-Brown and Mike Phillips.

Millora-Brown is still recovering from his back surgery while Phillips begged off to attend his brother’s wedding.

Having the Gilas center in the fold, however, completely changes the dynamics for the Nationals according to Cone. And that was very much evident in their games in the qualifiers where they ended the first round on a four-game losing skid.

With Sotto in tow, Gilas was able to beat teams like Latvia and New Zealand in the past.

"No doubt, he’s a game-changer for us. I already feel like a better coach with him in the fold,” said Cone.

At this point, Gilas’ bid for a World Cup ticket hangs in the balance as it currently sits outside the Top 3 in its group with a 2-4 record.

Gilas needing to sweep Iran, Jordan and Syria in the second round is the most ideal scenario for the Nationals to give themselves a spot in the World Cup in Qatar next year.

“It’s a do-or-die situation and we’re extremely happy that he responded to the call,” said Cone

Related Tags

Kai Sotto Gilas Pilipinas Tim Cone
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