By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Kai Sotto became a huge factor during the Hiroshima Dragonflies’ back-to-back weekend playing schedule last April 1-2, 2023 in the ongoing season of the Japan B. League.
The seven-foot-three NBA aspirant was a major catalyst in Hiroshima’s two-consecutive wins against co-Filipino Asian import Matthew Wright and Japanese hoops club Kyoto Hannaryz.
During their 92-76 win last Saturday, Sotto manhandled Kyoto’s interior after racking up 14 total points and continued his majestic outing the day after when he dropped 11 points, eight rebounds, three blocks, and an assist.
Sotto’s efficient all-around outing then helped Hiroshima finish their weekend trip with a 76-63 victory and is now 7-2 since debuting in Japan.
It seemed like Kyoto didn’t learn their lesson during their first encounter a month ago when Sotto dominated inside the shaded lane.
Last March 15, 2023, it was Sotto who led the charge of the Dragonflies against Hannaryz and scored 20 big points built from 9/14 shooting from the field.
Sotto provided the same impact during their back-to-back games as the team’s starting center and is now regarded as one of the best young talents playing in Japan.
Soon as Sotto got his position in the left block, there was nothing that Kyoto can do and would suffer several paint openings when the Filipino hooper attracted several double teams.
Also equipped with a more reliable outside shot than his stint with the Adelaide 36ers, Sotto is slowly progressing into a two-way threat for Hiroshima.
Sotto’s timely surge then boosted the Dragonflies’ campaign of another playoff qualification but will have to do better in their last 13 games to assure them a ticket in the post-season.
