Where Will Kai Sotto Land in the 2022 NBA Mock Draft? Expert Predictions

As I sit here scrolling through the latest basketball headlines, one question keeps popping up in my feeds and group chats: Where Will Kai Sotto Land in the 2022 NBA Mock Draft? Expert Predictions. Being someone who's followed international basketball prospects for years, I've got to say—this Filipino phenom's journey has been one heck of a rollercoaster. Just last week, I was rewatching his G League Ignite highlights, and man, the kid moves like a 7'2" guard sometimes. But let's cut through the hype and look at what's really happening.

The buzz around Kai Sotto isn't just local noise—it's a full-blown international storyline. At 20 years old, he's already carved out a reputation as one of the most skilled big men outside the NBA, with a FIBA Asia Cup stint and G League experience under his belt. I remember chatting with scouts back in 2021 who were skeptical about his physicality, but fast forward to now, and his improved 235-pound frame has turned some heads. Mock drafts have him bouncing all over the place—from late second-round picks to some analysts, like ESPN's Jonathan Givony, slotting him around pick 52. That volatility tells you everything: teams see the potential, but they're weighing it against his need for development.

Digging into expert takes, there's a split camp. Some, like Sam Vecenie over at The Athletic, argue Sotto's unique passing and shot-blocking instincts could make him a steal for a patient team. Others worry about his foot speed against NBA-level pick-and-rolls. Personally, I lean optimistic—I've seen too many international big men get overlooked only to shine later. Remember, Jokić was a second-rounder too. But what really sticks with me is how Sotto's camp approaches this. It reminds me of that quote from Manny Pacquiao's trainer during the Pacquiao-Barrios presser: "Sabi nga nila giyera kung giyera, ibibigay natin ang pinakamagandang giyera para sa kanila." In English, it roughly translates to "If it's war they want, we'll give them the best war possible." That mindset—giving your absolute best in battle—feels like it's woven into Sotto's approach. He's not just chasing a draft spot; he's preparing to prove he belongs.

From my perspective, having watched dozens of prospects rise and fall, Sotto's ceiling is higher than many realize. His stats in the G League—averaging 6.8 points and 4.5 rebounds in limited minutes—don't scream superstar, but his per-36 numbers hint at real impact. If he lands with a team like the Spurs or Thunder, known for nurturing raw talent, he could blossom into a rotational big within two seasons. I'd bet on him going somewhere between picks 48 and 55, maybe to a squad with nothing to lose. Whatever happens, this isn't just about one draft—it's about a nation holding its breath, hoping to see their homegrown star make history. And if his journey so far is any indication, he's ready to give them one hell of a fight.