MANILA, Philippines — New Zealand coach Judd Flavell believes young Filipino big man Kai Sotto’s absence was visibly felt by Gilas Pilipinas during its 66-69 loss last Thursday to the visiting Tall Blacks in their FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers game.
Sotto begged off to play for Gilas in the second window, as he continues to strengthen his knee since recently recovering from a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament). That was a situation New Zealand took advantage of, according to Flavell.
“We know Kai Sotto is a big part of the puzzle for the Philippines. He gives them another dynamic,” said the 52-year-old New Zealand coach.
Flavell noted that the 7-foot-3 Sotto could do a lot for Gilas, given his mobility and size.
“He’s very mobile, he gives them another dynamic when he plays. He does absolutely help them,” noted Flavell.
Sotto was a big part of the Philippines’ historic 93-89 win against New Zealand during the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in the two squad’s November 2024 match at the SM Mall of Asia Arena The win marked Gilas’ first against New Zealand with Sotto contributing all-around numbers of 19 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and two blocks.
The Tall Blacks crashed the boards in the absence of Sotto and held a 53-49 advantage in their win against the Filipinos.
Sam Mennenga led New Zealand with 14 rebounds.
Athletic Gilas big man AJ Edu led the Philippines with 11 boards, while contributing defensively as well with three blocked shots.
Still, Flavell admitted that Gilas flaunts a solid front court due to the presence of Edu, nine-time PBA Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo, and Quentin Millora-Brown, who added size and inside scoring.
“They are a handful collectively. They got 15 offensive rebounds, and I think we pride ourselves in rebounding and I know they do as well,” he said.
The Tall Blacks booked just their first win after losing back-to-back to the Australia Boomers in window 1.
Flavell’s squad improved to 7-1 against the Philippines all-time in their head-to-head, but he expects another tough challenge come this July when they face off in the third and final window of the opening round.
“Next time we’re gonna see the Philippines is in July and we know that’s going to be another big challenge,” said Flavell.