Kai Sotto has confirmed he suffered a torn ACL during Koshigaya Alphas’ loss to Mikawa in the Japan B. League over the weekend. The 7-foot-3 basketball star shared the news through his social media account on Wednesday.
A Challenging Setback
“The worst way to start the year, might be the darkest day of my basketball career, when I was told I tore my ACL,” Sotto wrote. “Tough to let this one sink in.”
The injury places the 22-year-old on the sidelines, affecting his current B. League season and future commitments, including the Gilas Pilipinas campaign for the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
Impact on Upcoming Events
Sotto will likely miss the third and final window of the qualifiers, where Gilas Pilipinas is set to face Chinese Taipei and New Zealand in two critical away games. Additionally, Sotto has been placed on Koshigaya’s injury list and is set to miss the B. League Asia Rising Star Games scheduled for January 18.
Remaining Positive
Despite the setback, Sotto expressed gratitude for the support he has received.
“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,” he said.
Gilas Pilipinas Adjustments
Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone previously stated that the team will not expand its player pool for the upcoming window and will stick with the current roster despite Sotto’s absence.
Sotto’s injury is a significant blow to both his club and the national team, but his resilience and optimism hint at a strong return once he completes his recovery.