Kai’s obligation

There would be more than one reason for Kai Sotto to miss the next FIBA window against New Zealand and Australia in the last week of the month. The local basketball community collectively held its breath when the 7’3” center turned his ankle in his first game back for the Koshigaya Alphas three weeks ago. And we all breathed a sigh of relief when he returned to action a few days later. According to Japan B.League analyst and statistician Iris Arzadon, it is still almost certain that Kai will not be able to play for Gilas Pilipinas yet.

“It’s 90 percent sure,” says Arzadon, who has been traveling with the B.League for four years. “I was there when I checked on Kai, and I spoke with his trainer, who is also Filipino. He still has to rest a little bit more.”

But beyond that, there is a more compelling reason for Sotto to favor Japan over Gilas: a debt of gratitude.

“I think this is the real thing: I think Kai also owes Koshigaya Alphas his time,” explains Arzadon. They waited for him for a year and a half to recover. I believe the Alphas also deserve to benefit from Kai’s time to play, and also for him to blend in with the team, because it’s been a long time. Gilas Pilipinas was not able to use Kai; same thing in Japan. He was not able to play for a long time.”

Arzadon, who attends B.League games three days a week to record and break down a comprehensive set of stats for teams, cities and the league, explains that Koshigaya also needs the Filipino center to be competitive.

“If you ask me, it’s getting along with the team’s investor,” he adds. “They gave time and money for his recovery. We have to get along with them. I think it’s for them to call the shots this time.”

Yesterday, Arzadon posted a video of Sotto suited up for Koshigaya. He also explains that Filipino imports in Japan have to earn their minutes, build chemistry with the team, and find their role. Sometimes, Filipino fans are disappointed when their favorite players are not their Japanese teams’ star players. He also adds that, from a high of 13 Filipinos in the B.League, there are now only seven. He says that some players who come over are still raw or not mature enough to compete professionally. He recommends playing in the Philippines first, then trying their luck overseas, which is the reverse of what other basketball experts suggest.

If Kai does ultimately play in the FIBA window, it will be a great confidence booster for the team. It does not guarantee anything, but gives the country a better fighting chance. Unfortunately, we are sharing him with Koshigaya, and he also has a commitment there. They’ve stuck with him and repaid his hard work and the risks he’s taken. It would be understandable if they preferred that he plays for them first. We wish otherwise, but it’s also a case of mutual respect.

The full interview with Iris Arzadon on Basketball Universe PHL on YouTube. Subscribe now.