Tim Cone emphasizes Kai Sotto’s importance for Gilas

As Gilas Pilipinas prepares for the upcoming FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, head coach Tim Cone did not waste time stressing just how crucial Kai Sotto’s presence is for the squad and how significantly his absence is being felt.

Gilas finds itself charting a difficult path without its 7-foot-3 big man after Sotto suffered an ACL injury earlier this year while playing in the Japan B.League. 

Cone did not mince words when comparing the national team without Sotto to a powerhouse squad missing its anchor. 

“With Kai, we jumped into different levels. And without him, we’re still a really good team, but we’re so much better when we have Kai,” Cone said.

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Kai Sotto gives an update on his recovery as he hopes to return to the court together with Gilas Pilipinas soon.#GilasPilipinas #SmartxGilas #SmartSports

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The veteran coach drew a strong parallel: losing Sotto is like the San Miguel Beermen missing its nine-time MVP, June Mar Fajardo, in the PBA.

“When June Mar plays for San Miguel, they are an incredible team. How many All-Filipino championships have they won? When June Mar doesn’t play, they’re still a very good team, but they’re not the same,” he said.

Sotto’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively had become a central pillar to Cone’s system.

Cone admitted that while Gilas does have other big men in veteran and emerging players but none quite deliver what Sotto brought.

“It’s gonna be tough to replace all the things that he does for us,” said Cone.

Still, he underscored that Gilas will not abandon its plans: the coaching staff and management are exploring ways to adjust the roster and game plan to fill the void. 

Gilas will play Guam in the first game held at Calvo Field House on Friday, Nov. 28, and again on Monday, Dec. 1, at the Blue Eagle Gym.

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