Kai Sotto's NBA Mock Draft 2022 Projection and Potential Team Fits Analysis

The scent of sweat and leather filled the gym as I watched a young athlete sink free throws with a quiet focus that felt almost sacred. It reminded me of another scene, half a world away, where Manny Pacquiao’s longtime trainer once said during a press conference in Manila, "Sabi nga nila giyera kung giyera, ibibigay natin ang pinakamagandang giyera para sa kanila." In war, you give your best war for them. That Filipino fighting spirit—the willingness to lay everything on the line—is something I’ve always admired, and it’s exactly what I see in Kai Sotto as we approach the 2022 NBA Draft.

I remember staying up late to watch his games in Australia’s NBL, my laptop glowing in the dark, hoping to catch a glimpse of the future. At 7’2”, he moves with a fluidity you don’t often find in players his size. But it’s not just the height or the soft touch around the rim that stands out—it’s the heart. You can tell he carries the hopes of an entire nation, much like Pacquiao did every time he stepped into the ring. That pressure either breaks you or forges you, and from what I’ve seen, Kai is being forged.

When I look at his current mock draft projections, most analysts slot him somewhere in the mid-to-late second round. I’ve seen him going as high as pick number 42 to the Charlotte Hornets and as low as 58 to the Indiana Pacers. Now, I’m no scout, but I’ve followed basketball long enough to recognize potential when I see it. Teams like the Hornets could use a developmental big who can stretch the floor—imagine Kai setting screens for LaMelo Ball and popping out for a three. It’s a tantalizing thought. On the other hand, the San Antonio Spurs have a history of polishing raw talent, and their system might just be the perfect incubator for his skills.

But let’s be real—the NBA isn’t just about talent. It’s about fit, opportunity, and a little bit of luck. I’ve always believed that Kai’s best shot isn’t necessarily with a contender right away, but with a team that’s patient. Somewhere like the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are clearly building for the future and have shown they’re willing to invest time in young players. They’ve got a treasure trove of draft picks—around 27 over the next five years, if I recall correctly—and could afford to take a chance on a high-ceiling project like Sotto.

Still, doubts linger. I’ve read the criticisms—that he needs to bulk up, that his defense might struggle against NBA-level athletes. And yeah, those are valid concerns. But I can’t help but feel that his intangibles are being overlooked. The way he sees the game, his passing vision for a big man, that unteachable feel—it’s special. When Pacquiao’s trainer talked about giving your best war, I think that’s what he meant. It’s not just about physical readiness; it’s about bringing your whole spirit to the fight.

As draft night approaches, I find myself hoping Kai lands in a situation that allows him to grow without the weight of immediate expectations. Maybe it’s a two-way contract to start, or a season in the G League to fine-tune his game. Whatever happens, his journey is one I’ll be following closely. Because sometimes, the story isn’t just about making it—it’s about how you fight once you’re there. And if there’s one thing Kai Sotto’s NBA Mock Draft 2022 projection has shown me, it’s that the right team could help him turn potential into legacy.