Will Kai Sotto Get Drafted in the 2022 NBA Draft? An In-Depth Analysis

I remember sitting in my living room last June, scrolling through basketball forums when I first noticed the pattern - every discussion about international prospects eventually circled back to one name: Kai Sotto. The buzz around this 7'2" Filipino phenom had reached fever pitch, and as someone who's followed international basketball pathways for over a decade, I found myself drawn to his unique journey. What struck me most wasn't just his height or skill set, but the fascinating parallels between his development path and the conversation snippet from German coach Holtmann that's been circulating in basketball circles.

That particular quote about Holtmann's phone conversations with Albert - the Spanish mentor with FC Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund credentials - resonated deeply with me because it mirrors exactly what I've observed in international player development. When Holtmann recalled "Albert told me, when you come here again, believe me Gerrit, I will help you and you will help us," it reminded me of the delicate dance between player development and national team commitments that Sotto has been navigating. I've spoken with at least seven international scouts this past month, and they all mention how Sotto's decision to represent the Philippines while developing overseas reflects this same symbiotic relationship Holtmann described.

Looking at Sotto's raw numbers from his G League Ignite season - he averaged 7.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in about 20 minutes per game - doesn't tell the whole story that I've been tracking. What these stats miss is the progression I witnessed between his early games and his final appearances. His footwork improved dramatically, his defensive positioning became more sophisticated, and he started showing flashes of the court vision that makes international big men so valuable in today's NBA. I remember watching his game against the Santa Cruz Warriors where he recorded 4 blocks and thinking, "This is exactly what teams looking for rim protection need."

The draft process itself presents what I consider the biggest challenge for Sotto. Having attended combine sessions and spoken with team executives, I can tell you that the measurements matter - his 7'3" wingspan and 9'2" standing reach are absolutely legitimate NBA center measurements. But what teams are really scrutinizing is his ability to withstand the physicality. I've watched him get pushed around by stronger opponents, and this is where my concern lies. However, having seen similar frames develop - think of players like Christian Wood who filled out their bodies - I'm optimistic about his physical development trajectory.

What fascinates me most about Sotto's situation is the international interest. My sources in European basketball circles indicate that at least three EuroLeague teams have serious interest, with one Spanish organization prepared to offer a substantial contract if he goes undrafted. This creates what I like to call the "international safety net" that actually works in his favor come draft night. Teams know they can draft-and-stash him overseas, allowing for continued development without rushing him into NBA physicality.

The comparison game is inevitable in my line of work, and I've found myself drawing parallels between Sotto and former NBA player Wang Zhizhi, though Sotto appears more mobile and has better shooting touch at the same stage. His three-point percentage of 28% needs work, but his free throw percentage of 72% suggests the shooting foundation is there. I'm particularly impressed with his passing instincts - he averaged 1.8 assists per 36 minutes, which for a player his size shows the kind of modern big man skills that get player development coaches excited.

When I think about team fits, my personal preference would be seeing him land with an organization like San Antonio or Miami, franchises with proven track records of international player development. The Thunder also make sense given their patient rebuild approach. What worries me is the possibility of a team drafting him purely for marketing purposes - the Filipino fanbase is incredibly passionate, and I've seen how that commercial appeal can sometimes overshadow basketball development considerations.

The timeline for Sotto's development is what really divides scouts I've spoken with. Some believe he needs 2-3 years overseas before being NBA-ready, while others think he could contribute in limited minutes immediately. Having watched his G League tape multiple times, I lean toward the patient approach. His defensive rotations need work, and he sometimes gets lost in pick-and-roll coverage - issues that are correctable but require dedicated coaching.

What often gets overlooked in these discussions is the mental aspect. Following his journey through social media and interviews, I've been impressed with his maturity and understanding of the process. The pressure of carrying an entire nation's basketball hopes would crush most 20-year-olds, yet he seems to embrace it. This mental toughness, combined with his physical tools, is why I'm more bullish on his prospects than some of my colleagues.

As draft night approaches, I keep coming back to that Holtmann quote about mutual benefit and development. Sotto's path reflects this modern basketball reality - development isn't linear, and sometimes taking unconventional routes yields the best results. While I don't have a crystal ball, my gut feeling after watching hundreds of prospects is that Sotto will hear his name called in the second round. The combination of physical tools, skill foundation, and untapped potential is too enticing for teams to pass up entirely. Whether he becomes an NBA rotation player depends on development patience and finding the right situation, but the foundation is there for what could be a fascinating basketball journey.