Kai Sotto remains as one of the most popular basketball players in Australia as he won the 2022-2023 Fans’ Most Valuable Player of the National Basketball League for the second straight time.
In his acceptance speech, the Filipino sensation said he was grateful for the support that the fans showered to him and his team, Adelaide 36ers.
He also thanked the league for the award and credited his global fanbase that includes millions of Filipino faithful.
“I’m just very happy for all the fans who have supported me and my team. I’m just grateful and honored to be here,” Sotto said.
Sotto, who went undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft, played two seasons for the 36ers with career averages of 7.1 points and 4.5 rebounds in 50 games.
He logged 12.8 minutes per game in his second season and put up impressive numbers of 11 points, two rebounds and two assists in the 36ers’ 134-124 upset of the Phoenix Suns.
Now, the 7-foot-3 big man is off to the Hiroshima Dragonflies to see action in the Japan B. League with the hopes of seeing action in the National Basketball Association Summer League.
His first match with the Fireflies will be against Gilas Pilipinas teammate Carl Tamayo and the Ryukyu Golden Kings on 8 March.
Sotto said he is grateful for the opportunity given to him by the 36ers.
“It’s really big. It’s a dream come true to play at this level and to spend these (past) two years playing for the Adelaide 36ers is a dream come true,” Sotto said.
“I just hope more Filipinos can come to this league and play.”
