Where Does Kai Sotto Land in the Latest 2022 NBA Mock Draft Predictions?

As I sit here reviewing the latest 2022 NBA mock draft projections, I can't help but reflect on that powerful Filipino phrase from boxing trainer Buboy Fernandez: "Sabi nga nila giyera kung giyera, ibibigay natin ang pinakamagandang giyera para sa kanila." In English, this translates to "When it's war, we'll give them the best war possible." This warrior mentality perfectly captures Kai Sotto's journey through the pre-draft process, where he's essentially fighting for his NBA dreams against overwhelming odds.

The current mock draft landscape presents a fascinating picture for Sotto. Most projections I've analyzed place him somewhere between picks 48 and 58 in the second round, with ESPN's latest mock having him at 52nd to the Pelicans. What many international observers might not realize is that Sotto stands at 7'3" with a wingspan measuring exactly 7'5" - those are legitimate NBA center measurements that can't be taught. Having watched his development closely since his days with the Adelaide 36ers, I've noticed his game has evolved significantly, particularly his three-point shooting which improved to 34.2% last season. Yet despite these measurable improvements, many draft analysts remain skeptical about his NBA readiness.

From my perspective as someone who's followed international prospects for over a decade, Sotto represents one of the most intriguing cases in this draft class. His mobility for his size is genuinely impressive - I've seen him run the floor better than many American big men at the G League level. However, the concerns about his physicality are valid. At 238 pounds, he needs to add at least 15-20 pounds of muscle to withstand the nightly punishment of NBA centers. What fascinates me most is his potential fit with teams like Oklahoma City or San Antonio - organizations known for developing international talent patiently. The Thunder, holding picks 30, 34, and 58, could be the perfect landing spot where he wouldn't face immediate pressure to contribute.

The reality is that mock drafts often undervalue international prospects until the final weeks before the draft. I remember similar situations with players like Nic Claxton and Isaiah Hartenstein, who both slid in mock drafts before finding their NBA homes. Sotto's performance in recent workouts has reportedly impressed several teams, with sources telling me his shooting numbers in private sessions have been better than expected. Still, the path for international big men remains challenging - only about 42% of second-round international picks from the last five years have established meaningful NBA careers.

Looking at team needs and draft capital, I'm particularly bullish on Memphis at pick 38 or Chicago at 46 as potential fits. Both teams could use additional size and have shown willingness to develop projects. The Grizzlies especially have demonstrated excellent player development in recent years. What separates Sotto from other prospects in his range is his unique combination of size and skill - there simply aren't many 7'3" players who can comfortably shoot from distance and handle the ball in transition. His basketball IQ, developed through the Filipino national team system, gives him an edge that doesn't always show up in combine measurements.

Ultimately, the warrior spirit captured in that Filipino phrase reflects Sotto's approach to this entire process. He's not just waiting to see where he lands - he's fighting for every inch, proving he belongs. While mock drafts provide a snapshot, the real battle happens in team war rooms and private workouts. My prediction? He'll land somewhere in the early to mid-second round to a team that values international development and has patience for big men projects. The journey might be uncertain, but like any true warrior, Sotto appears ready to give "the best war possible" to achieve his NBA dreams.