Orlando Magic center Kai Sotto during an NBA Summer League game in Las Vegas. Photo screengrabbed from NBA Philippines’ video
MANILA, Philippines—Kai Sotto has yet to play in the NBA Summer League after two games with the Orlando Magic in Las Vegas.
Regardless, Sotto vowed to be ready once he finally gets his chance.
“[I’m] just trying to show the coaches that I’m a good teammate, I’m a good player. I’ll be ready whenever they call my name. I’ll be a positive guy on the corner, on the bench,” Sotto said in a video interview released by NBA Philippines on Tuesday.
“I’m just like a sponge, just trying to learn from everybody, from all the things happening to us.”
So far, Magic coach Dylan Murphy has decided to keep Sotto on the bench in both losses to the Detroit Pistons on Sunday and the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday.
Orlando Magic center Kai Sotto during a huddle at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Photo screengrabbed from NBA Philippines’ video
Sotto was among the 10 players who logged a DNP (Did Not Play) against the Pacers amid “We Want Sotto” chants inside the Thomas & Mack Arena.
The minutes may be nonexistent for Sotto so far in the Summer League but he’s been getting plenty of support from his countrymen regardless.
I’m really happy to see Filipinos come and watch our game and support,” said Sotto.
“I feel like everywhere I go, I represent the Philippines so I just have to be aware of my actions and like I said, here in the Summer League, I got to put in the work and stay ready when the coach calls my name.”
The Magic play the New York Knicks on Thursday.