Kai Sotto declares for NBA Draft, asks for prayers and support as he pursues his ‘ultimate dream’
Kai Sotto is all set to chase his "ultimate dream."
The 7-foot 19-year-old announced that he has declared for the 2022 NBA Draft on Instagram on Thursday, April 28 after spending an entire season in Australia’s National Basketball League.
“Thank you, Adelaide! Thank you, Australia! It has been an unforgettable year!” he began his post.
Sotto, who plays the center position, expressed his gratitude to the 36ers Management as well as his teammates, coaching staff, and agent Joel Bell. “I am a better man and a better professional player than a year ago because you all took me under your wing and challenged and mentored me to live up to expectations,” he wrote.
“To all the fans both old and new who support and even travel to games, and have lifted me up on this incredible journey, I am so blessed and inspired when I read your messages and hear your cheers!” added Sotto.
The Filipino athlete also thanked his relatives for their “unending guidance and all the sacrifices over the years of training and travel.”
“Finally, an athlete like me doesn’t get to a certain point of his journey without the help and support of many coaches, trainers, sponsors, media, and even the army of bloggers who write about me endlessly! I hope to personally thank you all someday,” he added.
“I have declared for the 2022 NBA Draft. Please pray for and support me during my quest to fulfill my ultimate dream,” Sotto said.
Sotto was an NBA Draft prospect for his stint in the NBA G League Ignite, but he left the team in 2021. Sotto joined the Ateneo Blue Eaglets in 2016 and helped lead the team to clinch the championship in 2018, where he also won the most valuable player award.
The 2022 NBA Rookie Draft is slated for June 23 at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.