Author: Monojit Mandal
Kai Sotto, a 21-year-old Filipino basketball prodigy, attracted the attention of veteran PBA importers Sean Chambers and Derrick Hamilton during his recent stint with the Orlando Magic during the NBA Summer League. The two veterans consider Sotto to have enormous potential, praising his skill set and his NBA-ready attitude.
Sean Chambers, who coached the Alaskan team to six PBA titles in the 1990s, was particularly impressed with Sotto’s demonstration of “true Filipino fighting spirit” against the Portland Trailblazers. Although Sotto seemed nervous and hesitant on the court at first, he quickly demonstrated his persistence and willingness to compete at a high level, according to Chambers, who praised the young point guard’s quick reflexes, deft hands and shot-blocking ability.
He also mentioned Sotto’s mid-range jumping potential.
Sotto made his Summer League debut, scoring six points from three of seven shots, four rebounds and three blocks. Derrick Hamilton, a 6-foot-7 former PBA import, praised Sotto’s skill set, saying he’s ready for the NBA. To become a complete player on both sides of the court, Hamilton emphasized the importance of further refining factors such as nutrition, diet, strength and conditioning and footwork.
Chambers and Hamilton also took the opportunity to reflect on their time with the Alaska franchise in the 1990s, a decade in which the team enjoyed considerable success, including winning nine PBA titles and a Grand Slam in 1996. Chambers attributed the club’s success to the strong family atmosphere fostered by its owner, Fred Uytengsu, and coach Tim Cone. Hamilton agreed, praising the squad for its cohesion, altruism and lack of internal disputes.
Chambers and Hamilton expressed their desire to return to the Philippines and work with former colleague Jojo Lastimosa to create a similar team culture for the children. They think that instilling the ideals they learned when they played for Alaska will help future Filipino basketball players improve.