Kai Sotto sits out Japan B.League All-Star Game

Filipino basketball center Kai Sotto will not take part in the upcoming Japan B.League Asia All-Star Game in Nagasaki, the league announced Tuesday, as he continues his recovery from a significant knee injury that has kept him off the court for the past year.

The 7-foot-3 big man, a centerpiece for the Koshigaya Alphas, has been progressing steadily through non-contact rehabilitation following a torn ACL suffered in January 2025. Rather than push for a premature return in the mid-season exhibition, Sotto and the Alphas have opted to extend his rehabilitation timeline, prioritizing long-term health over short-term appearances.

Sotto’s ACL tear occurred during a Japan B.League match against the SeaHorses Mikawa, when the center landed awkwardly and fell to the floor, forcing him out of action for the remainder of the 2024-25 season. 

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

#FrontlineWeekend | Umaasa raw si Kai Sotto na magka-comeback siya sa basketball court. Ayon sa basketbolista, ngayong buwan ng Enero ang goal niya na makapaglarong muli. pic.twitter.com/UPhtDgNMOm

— News5 (@News5PH) January 3, 2026

Despite Sotto’s absence, several Filipino players are still slated to participate in the All-Star festivities. Veterans like Dwight Ramos, Ray Parks Jr., Kiefer Ravena, and AJ Edu have been named to compete, and Francis Lopez is expected to feature in the event’s Relive Dunk Contest.

The 23-year-old missed key windows for Gilas Pilipinas, including qualifiers and tournament play, as he focused on recovery and regaining strength in his surgically repaired knee. 

Before the injury, Sotto had been developing into one of the B.League’s most promising big men, known for his size, mobility, and potential at both ends of the floor.

While no definitive timetable has been set, the emphasis remains on ensuring that he regains full confidence and fitness before resuming competitive play.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate basketball fans.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.