Kai Sotto eager for ‘good challenge’ in Japan B.League

Kai Sotto during his introductory press conference with the Hiroshima Dragonflies. – FOR HIROSHIMA

MANILA, Philippines – Kai Sotto is confident that he will continue to develop his game to strengthen the Hiroshima Dragonflies in the 2022-23 B.League season.

The 20-year-old Filipino import is looking to improve all aspects of his game as he takes on his fellow foreigners in Japan’s ever-growing league.

“He just told me that this league is very competitive. As a big man, I will be against some foreign players, import every game, so I think it will be a good challenge for me to play in this league,” said Sotto during the opening press conference on Thursday.

Sotto, who decided to play in the B.League after two seasons with the Adelaide 36ers in the National Basketball League in Australia, added that he wants to have the same experience as his fellow Filipinos, who have developed in Japan against locals and former players. – NBA players.

“I just saw how B. Liga embraces fellow Filipinos and I just want to have that experience. Seeing him play, play well, enjoy, and have a good experience, I also want to have the same thing, so it’s a good opportunity for me to play here, have fun, and learn,” he said.

Sotto has plenty to offer for Hiroshima when he debuts on March 8 against Carl Tamayo and the Ryukyu Golden Kings.

“Offensively, I’ve been asked to do whatever the coach wants me to do. Defensively, my team can count on me to protect the rim and just bring intensity on defense. Everything I can do, I’m trying my best to help this team win,” said the 7-point center. foot 3.

The Gilas Pilipinas player is eager to help the Dragonflies, who are currently No.3 in the Western Conference with a 28-10 record, get more wins.

“I’ve seen, I’ve heard how this team is a very good team. I just want to make it a little better now that I’m here. Just have extra people to help any team I can. I’m just here to get better and help this team win,” he said.

With his decision to sign with Hiroshima for the rest of the season, Sotto said the next three months will be important for him, as he believes he is in the right team to take his game to the next level.

“I just want to continue to improve in all aspects offensively and defensively, on and off the field, my strengths are that I need to get stronger and faster,” Sotto said. “I just want to keep playing, keep getting better. I think this team will help me improve and develop.

Sotto, who averaged 7.1 points and 4.5 rebounds in 50 games in his second NBL season, said he will pursue his NBA dream after this B.League season.

Read Next

Don’t miss the latest news and information.

For suggestions, complaints, or questions, please contact us.