Gilas Pilipinas faces Kai Sotto doubts ahead of FIBA World Cup Qualifiers window 

Gilas Pilipinas will kick off preparations for the upcoming FIBA window on February 16, but the national team faces a major challenge: Kai Sotto is “unlikely” to join the 10-day camp, his camp confirmed via text message. The sessions are set to take place in Pasig and at the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna.

The absence of the 7-foot-3 center leaves a huge gap for Gilas. While the team still has plenty of talent, losing their tallest and most dominant player significantly weakens their frontcourt. As comparisons go, Gilas without Kai is like the Lakers without Luka or San Miguel Beer without June Mar Fajardo.

Sotto has always been committed to the national team, but his circumstances have changed. After tearing his ACL in January 2025, he’s slowly working his way back with the Koshigaya Alphas in Japan, averaging 10 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists over four games

.

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.

Sotto availability for Fiba World Cup qualifiers vs Boomers, Tall Blacks still up in the air #FIBAWC #GilasPilipinas #stepitup

READ: https://t.co/WeSqnrQ8JF pic.twitter.com/7vZWPHSZ9o

— SPIN.ph (@spinph) February 9, 2026

A minor ankle sprain, however, forced his camp to prioritize recovery over attending Gilas training.

While he hasn’t ruled out playing in games against New Zealand (Feb. 26) and Australia (March 1), skipping camp is a big setback. 

His team believes staying in Japan for focused rehabilitation gives him the best chance to return stronger.

Kai Sotto has long been a symbol of hope for Philippine basketball. This pause may be disappointing, but protecting his health ensures the country will continue to have its towering presence for future FIBA windows and beyond.

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

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!