Kai Sotto will need to clear the concussion protocols of the Japan B.League before he can see action in the upcoming games of Gilas Pilipinas in the qualifiers of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup.
Gilas Pilipinas team manager Richard Del Rosario said on Wednesday, November 13, that Sotto, even though he has already arrived in the Philippines, still needs to receive clearance in order to play or even practice with the national team.
"Right now, there are six steps to be taken. He is on his third step. It is not as easy as going to the next step right away. After one step, there is an observation period before you go to the next step," Del Rosario explained in a press conference.
Sotto, who plays for the Koshigaya Alphas in the Japan B.League, suffered a concussion due to a collission during the 80-72 win of his team against Yokohama B-Corsairs last Saturday, November 9.
The concussion forced Sotto to sit out the next game of the Alphas.
"Primary consideration is his health. We want to make sure that he is healthy enough to step back to the court," Del Rosario stressed.
However, Del Rosario trusts that Sotto can suit up for the matches against New Zealand on November 21 and Hong Kong on November 24.
"He is on the process of completing the concussion protocol but, in all indications, he will be available come game time, upon completion of those protocols," Del Rosario said.
Gilas Pilipinas will seek to continue a winning streak in qualifiers when the squad faces New Zealand on November 21 and Hong Kong on November 24.
Both games will happen at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
