Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes was delighted to have Kai Sotto in their tuneup against Ivory Coast on Friday.
For the first time in the final phase of their preparations for the FIBA World Cup, Sotto was able to join NBA star Jordan Clarkson and the rest of the gang in an actual scrimmage.
Sotto earlier begged off from practices to rest his back but made an immediate impact for the nationals as he partnered well with fellow big men June Mar Fajardo and AJ Edu.
This allowed Gilas to secure a commanding victory over Ivory Coast, finishing with a 23-point lead at 85-62.
Reyes said he sees a brighter prospect for Gilas with Sotto in the lineup.
“Well, makikita mo na di pa siya 100 percent, pero he really makes a difference,” the Gilas team tactician said.
“Nakakatulong talaga siya. He adds much needed depth to the team. Hopefully his back holds up. We have two more games before opening night.”
Sotto finished with 10 points, four rebounds, and a block.
Reyes used a 13-man lineup against Ivory Coast, opting not to field Ray Parks, Calvin Oftana, and Thirdy Ravena, who are expected to suit up for Gilas’ remaining friendlies against Montenegro on August 20 and Mexico on August 21.
Against Ivory Coast, the nationals came up with different formations and looks, going big in one instance and employing small-ball offense on other occasions.
Reyes will prune down the 16-man lineup after the tune-up matches to come up with the Final 12 for their all-important Group Phase games against the Dominican Republic on August 25, Angola on August 27, and Italy on August 29.
