Sotto’s NBA dream still alive

After experiencing high level competition in the Summer League, Kai Sotto remains hungry and focused to make it to the National Basketball Association.

Sotto's United States-based agent, Tony Ronzone of Wasserman Basketball, revealed that the 7-foot-3 Sotto will keep on knocking on the door of the NBA following a brief stint, but memorable, performance in the Summer League last week.

Sotto got enlisted in the Orlando Magic roster but sat out their first three matches against the Detroit Pistons, the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks in the annual showcase held at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

He, however, was given a chance to prove his worth when he was fielded for 13 minutes and 23 seconds, finishing with six points, four rebounds, three blocks and an assist in their 71-88 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers last Friday.

Then, he saw brief action against the Boston Celtics before exiting prematurely due to back spasm.

"I would say that he made the Filipinos proud. He patiently waited for his turn and you got to understand, he just turned 21 last month. He's playing against NBA-bound players," Ronzone said in a television interview.

"This is his first big opportunity to be on the big stage, to be in an NBA Summer League situation where he's being around pros, learning the pro system. This is all a learning experience for him. There will be many opportunities. This is just the start of his great journey."

Ronzone, who served at the front office of the Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves and Detroit Pistons before replacing George David in the player representation division of Wasserman Basketball, said Sotto is hungrier, more determined to land a roster spot in the opening day of the NBA.

"I would say his mindset is that is hungrier than he has ever been. Kai, I would say right now, is hungrier than before," Ronzone said.

"He got a taste of what it was like being on an NBA roster. I feel if he continues to improve as he is, one day we will get to see him on the floor."

Ronzone, however, wants the Filipino to bulk up to give him an advantage against legitimate NBA campaigners.

"He's got to get stronger. When you go against NBA bodies that are 28 or 25 years old, they're just bigger and stronger. It's hard for his body weight," Ronzone said.