Kai Sotto is dreaming big

Kai Sotto is dreaming big and following in the footsteps of his father Ervin Sotto.

On Sunday morning in between a huge weekend of basketball, Kai Sotto sat down with SBS Filipino and spoke on his dreams, mentors and his key to finding success. 

"As a young boy, I dreamed of playing at the Philippine Basketball League (PBA) like my father Ervin Sotto. But when I started playing basketball in high school my coaches and teammates including my father encouraged me to dream big. They said I can make it to the NBA as long as I continue to work hard and remain dedicated to the sport", Sotto told SBS journalist Maridel Martinez. 

After three years of playing for the Ateneo Blue Eagles, Sotto made his move to the US to pursue the NBA dream, and it was two years later that he came to Australia and joined the Adelaide 36ers where he was recently reunited with his father, and biggest mentor, Ervin Sotto.

"Moving to another country was a big step for me in pursuing my NBA dream but it wasn’t that difficult since my parents and siblings were by my side supporting my decision...My father plays a big role in my basketball career; he taught me to respect the game", says Sotto.

Sotto went on to discuss how hard work is essential for success.

"I remember playing basketball in the streets back in Manila where my father encouraged me to play as a young boy, every fall, every bruise helped me become the player I am today. It wasn’t easy but it helped shape me into the player I am.

"Training is very important. You will not be able to achieve your goal [or] succeed if you don’t work hard. You need to put in the effort", said Sotto.

Show your support for Kai when the Sixers return to Adelaide Entertainment Centre and face Southeast Melbourne Phoenix Sunday, 27 March at 12:30pm ACDT.

Tickets to the next home game are available here, while four-game memberships are available for purchase here.  

Original interview and podcast available here.

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