Sochan on Sotto: ‘He Has All the Abilities to Make It to the NBA’
Photo Sources: FIBA, NBA
When an NBA player praises a young international prospect, people pay attention. So when Jeremy Sochan, the versatile San Antonio Spurs forward, had something to say about Kai Sotto during a recent trip to Manila, Filipino fans have every reason to take notice.
“Yeah, definitely. You know, I’ve heard things about him. I know he’s still young, he’s tall, and has good touch and good mobility for a big,” Sochan said. “I think one thing that stood out for me was just the energy they played with, the fight, the heart. And I think that’s a super important trait to have in the game of basketball.”
Sochan and Sotto faced off during a tune-up game between Poland and Gilas Pilipinas on June 29, 2024, in Sosnowiec. The friendly served as preparation for both countries ahead of their respective Olympic Qualifying Tournaments. Sotto posted a solid stat line – 8 points and 11 rebounds while Sochan logged eight points and four boards in 12 minutes. Poland came away with an 82–80 win, but Sotto’s performance stood out.
The game ended up being one of Sotto’s final international appearances before a major setback. In January 2025, while playing for the Koshigaya Alphas in Japan’s B.League, he tore his ACL. He underwent surgery the following month and is expected to miss the rest of the year. Before the injury, he had been averaging 13.8 points and 9.5 rebounds across 26 games and had become a key piece for the Alphas. Despite the injury, he recently re-signed with the team for the 2025–26 season, signaling both his and the team’s belief in a strong comeback.
“Yeah, I think he has all the physical abilities and even the skill abilities to make it,” Sochan added. “It’s up to him to keep working, keep pushing, and keep growing his game. But I think he has all the abilities to make it to the NBA.”
That endorsement from Sochan carries weight. As a first round draft pick, he’s been through the grind of proving himself at the highest level. He also knows what it means to represent a nation, having worn the Polish jersey since his early teens.
“You know, growing up in Europe, you play for your national team from a young age. I think my first camp was at 13,” Sochan said. “But it’s just a time during the summer where you can improve on your skills. At the end of the day, I think it’s about representing your country, your family, your parents, your grandmas, your granddads. And I think that’s truly a blessing. Every time I step on the court with the Polish eagle on my jersey, I get this type of energy and excitement from it.”
Sotto shares a similar sense of national pride. Even while sidelined, his absence has been felt by Gilas Pilipinas. The team lacked interior presence and depth in key matchups at the Olympic qualifiers, and his recovery is being closely watched ahead of the FIBA Asia Cup later this year.
Off the court, Sochan’s visit to the Philippines included more than basketball. He participated in the NBA Rising Stars Invitational, where he connected with the next generation of Filipino players. The NUNS boys’ and girls’ squads, winners of the Philippine leg, qualified for the final round in Singapore.
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“I’m here to experience it all. I think the most important thing for me is to remind myself that I was in their footsteps,” Sochan said. “It could be nerve-wracking at times. I think just being here and inspiring the kids, giving them some type of motivation—maybe it’s this tournament to win it, to make it to Singapore, the regionals, or just in general, just keep working hard. I think it’s super exciting to be here.”
Sochan’s comments weren’t just words of encouragement; they were a challenge. He sees in Sotto the raw tools needed to make the leap, but also understands that talent alone isn’t enough. The grind, the growth, and the mindset are what will make the difference.
And if there’s one thing Filipino basketball has never lacked, it’s heart.