As I sit here scrolling through basketball forums and analyzing draft projections, one question keeps popping up: Will Kai Sotto actually get drafted in the 2020 NBA Draft? Having followed international basketball prospects for over a decade, I've seen countless young talents navigate this challenging path. The buzz around Sotto reminds me of that insightful quote from volleyball coach Pablo about focusing on "working with the pieces they have rather than searching for those who aren't there with them" - a philosophy that NBA teams might well apply when evaluating Sotto's unique situation.
Looking at the raw numbers, Sotto's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Standing at 7'2" with a wingspan that reportedly measures 7'5", his physical attributes alone make him intriguing. During his time with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia's NBL, he averaged 7.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in just under 15 minutes per game. While these stats might not jump off the page, I've learned that with international prospects, you need to dig deeper than just box scores. His mobility for someone his size is genuinely special - I've watched countless big men over the years, and his coordination while running the floor is something you can't teach.
What really stands out to me is how Sotto represents the changing landscape of international player development. Unlike traditional paths through American colleges, he's taken this global route that includes stints in the US, Spain, and Australia. Some scouts I've spoken with question whether he's physical enough for the NBA, pointing to his relatively slender 210-pound frame. But I remember similar concerns about players like Kristaps Porziņģis, who proved that skill and length can overcome pure bulk. The modern NBA values spacing and defensive versatility, areas where Sotto's shooting touch and shot-blocking instinct could thrive.
Here's where Pablo's wisdom really resonates with me - teams aren't just drafting a player, they're investing in potential. Rather than wishing Sotto was something he's not, smart organizations will evaluate what he brings right now and project his development curve. His basketball IQ is significantly higher than many give him credit for, something I noticed during his FIBA tournaments where he consistently made smart reads and passes. The fact that he's improved his three-point shooting to around 34% while maintaining his traditional post game makes him this fascinating hybrid big man.
I'll be honest - the draft process can be brutally unpredictable. Having tracked prospects who went through similar journeys, I'd put Sotto's chances at being drafted around 65%. Some mock drafts have him going late second round, while others omit him entirely. What many fans don't realize is that getting drafted isn't the only path to the NBA - we've seen numerous players make rosters through summer league and two-way contracts. The team that selects him will need patience and a clear development plan, but the potential reward could be substantial. As draft night approaches, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that some forward-thinking organization sees the unique value in this Filipino phenom and takes that calculated risk.