MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone can’t help but feel “extremely happy” upon seeing young big man Kai Sotto finally join the national team practice on Monday at the San Miguel Corp. practice facility in Pasig.
Amid heavy rains that flooded a big portion of Metro Manila, Cone and members of the Gilas players began their preparations for the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers second round where they face Jordan and Iran at the end of the month in a pair of home games.
“First day was great especially because Kai joined us in practice and is taking a break from his schedule to play for us in the Window,” Cone said in a message to The Manila Times Monday night.
“As we have said, it's a do or die situation and we're extremely happy that he responded to the call.” The American has said time and time again, that the 7-3 Sotto is a “game changer.” And with his presence alone, Cone said he felt like a “better coach” already.
“No doubt, he's a game-changer for us. I already feel like a better coach with him in the fold,” he said.
Naturalized player Justin Brownlee’s expected Sunday night arrival did not happen as planned, but the long-time Gilas mentor said the four-time PBA Best Import will arrive soon to join practice.
“We are still awaiting Justin's return from the US, but we expect him shortly. Otherwise, everyone showed up and we got right to work. We have 10 days to prep. We're all excited,” he added.
The 38-year-old Brownlee last played for Gilas in its July 3 road game against New Zealand, where the national team dropped a 106-102 double overtime decision in Auckland.
Brownlee was held down to just five points on a mere three attempts.
The 6-foot-4 Brownlee did have eight rebounds and four assists, but fouled out during the crucial juncture of the game as Gilas eventually, folded up.
The Philippines, being on a do-or-die situation, is out to arrest a four-game losing skid following losses to New Zealand and Australia in its home and road games.
Gilas’ two victories during the first round came from two blowout wins against lowly Guam.
Sotto’s expected presence for the national team marks the first time he will play for Gilas since tallying 19 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists in the Philippines’ historic 93-89 win against New Zealand in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Nov. 22, 2024.
