KAI Sotto is returning to Gilas Pilipinas with an added source of motivation as he and his wife, actress Rere Madrid, prepare to welcome their first child.
Sotto said the arrival of their baby has given him an even stronger desire to perform well for the Philippines in the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.
The 7-foot-3 center is eager to help Gilas secure victories in the crucial August window, where the Philippines will face Jordan and Iran at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
“Siyempre, sobrang inspiring nga na may padating na baby. Ayan, siguro mas konting mas seryoso pa na gusto kong makuha itong next na dalawang panalo para sa baby ko na parating, at para sa bansa,” Sotto said.
The Filipino big man added that becoming a father has further motivated him to represent the country.
“So ano lang ako, mas motivated ako na maglaro ngayon and siyempre lalo na para sa bansa natin,” he said.
Sotto’s return provides a significant boost to Gilas, which will be without longtime naturalized player Justin Brownlee and naturalization candidate Bennie Boatwright in the upcoming window.
The Philippines enters the crucial qualifying window with a 2-4 record and is looking to strengthen its position in the race for a spot in the 2027 FIBA World Cup. (Adrian Co)
