Guiao "not putting pressure" on Sotto as latter studying for exams

Kai Sotto is balancing studies and national team duty at the moment. FIBA (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

PASIG--Kai Sotto may be the future of Philippine basketball.

But Gilas Pilipinas head coach Yeng Guiao is well aware that the seven-foot-two beanpole is, after all, a high school student at Ateneo.

Sotto is among the three players not in attendance during the national team practice on Sunday night at the Meralco Gym.

And according to Guiao, the Blue Eaglet is gearing up for his exams this week.

"Kai is preparing for some exams in school. That's certainly a priority for Kai," Guiao said after practice.

Sotto was also absent in Friday night's training.

While Guiao named Sotto to his lineup in a Monday night friendly against Jordan at the said venue, the former will let the latter focus on his studies first.

"We don't really want to put any pressure on him," Guiao added.

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