 |
| Kai Sotto underwent conditioning with the guys at Fit Twenty One Gym while undergoing the Japan B.League's concussion protocols. Fit Twenty One Gym (file photo) |
MANILA--Kai Sotto can now play for Gilas Pilipinas in the November window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
Team manager Richard Del Rosario confirmed on Monday night that the Japan B.League already gave clearance to the Koshigaya center to return to competitive basketball after entering its concussion protocols.
The seven-foot-three beanpole was hit in the head during the Alphas' game against his former team, the Yokohama B-Corsairs, on Nov. 8 and sat out the rest of the way and also their Nov. 9 rematch.
Del Rosario said last week that Sotto has to undergo six stages of concussion protocols before he can play again.
The day later, though, Fit Twenty One Gym, which was tasked to monitor Sotto's conditioning while under the protocols, showed pictures of him looking good as he was doing non-contact drills, which at that time was allowed while he was still in Level 3 of the protocols.
Sotto reportedly played for Gilas in a tune-up game against Meralco earlier Monday at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba City, another positive sign that he is good to go.
Sotto's return will be a huge boost for Gilas' frontline as June Mar Fajardo now has more able help down low.
Currently fifth in the B.League in blocks, Sotto will add more rim protection for Gilas in its two-game homestand at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay later this week.
All eyes are now on the recovery progress of AJ Edu, who hurt his right knee also on Nov. 8 during Nagasaki's game against Akita.
Edu is currently listed as "doubtful" for the window, which means either Japeth Aguilar or Mason Amos is on standby if coach Tim Cone decides to sit out the 6-foot-10 power forward, who is B.League's number three in rejections.
Jamie Malonzo was already ruled out of the November window, assuring that one of the two injury reserves will be part of Gilas' Final 12 for its games against New Zealand and Hong Kong.
Sotto's availability assures that Gilas can field a full 12-man roster in both matches.
Follow him on X: @IvanSaldajeno
.jpg)
