Kai Sotto returns for Gilas Pilipinas in Philippines ahead of 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers; Sotto’s return boosts do-or-die bid.
Kai Sotto returns for Philippines ahead of “all hands on deck” 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers
Kai Sotto returns for Philippines ahead of “all hands on deck” 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers
Twenty-one months after his last appearance for Gilas Pilipinas, the 24-year-old centre returns in a bid to turn the Philippines’ basketball fortunes around.
Kai Sotto is set to make his long-awaited return to Gilas Pilipinas as they enter a make-or-break stretch of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers later this month.
It has been 21 months since Sotto last suited up for his nation, who sit fifth in Group E, needing home wins against Jordan and Islamic Republic of Iran this month to keep their Doha 2027 dreams alive.
“It’s a do-or-die situation and we’re extremely happy that he responded to the call,” said head coach Tim Cone , whose team have lost their last four qualifying games.
“The margin of error has really dissipated for us. Like I’ve been saying over the past few weeks, this is an all-hands-on-deck kind of thing.”
“No doubt, Sotto is a game-changer for us. I already feel like a better coach with him in the fold.”
The 24-year-old centre’s last appearance for Gilas came in November 2024 during the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, when he starred in the Philippines’ 93-89 victory over New Zealand with 19 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists.
His return follows a lengthy absence caused by a torn ACL in his left knee, suffered while playing in Japan’s B.League in January 2025. Although he had recovered by the last qualifying window in July, Sotto opted to focus on his NBA ambitions .