Will Kai Sotto Be Drafted in the 2022 NBA Mock Draft? Find Out Here

As I sit here analyzing the 2022 NBA draft prospects, one question keeps popping up in basketball circles: Will Kai Sotto finally hear his name called? Having followed international basketball prospects for over a decade, I've seen countless young talents chase their NBA dreams, but Sotto's journey feels particularly compelling. The recent quote from Manny Pacquiao's trainer during the Pacquiao-Barrios press conference resonates deeply here - "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," and I can't help but see the parallel to Sotto's current battle for an NBA roster spot.

The 7'3" Filipino center has been on NBA radars since his high school days, but his unconventional path through Australia's NBL and the G League Ignite has made his draft stock somewhat unpredictable. From my perspective as someone who's studied international player development, Sotto represents exactly the kind of high-risk, high-reward prospect that teams either fall in love with or completely overlook. His performance with the Adelaide 36ers showed flashes of brilliance - he averaged 7.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in 28 games last season - but consistency remains his biggest challenge. What fascinates me most is how his unique skill set for someone his size could either make him a second-round steal or leave him undrafted entirely.

Looking at current mock drafts from ESPN and The Athletic, the consensus seems to place Sotto anywhere from late second round to completely off the board. Personally, I believe his ceiling is higher than many analysts give him credit for - his mobility at 7'3" is genuinely special, and his shooting touch from mid-range could develop into a real weapon. However, the NBA's current trend toward switchable defenders works against traditional centers like Sotto. I've spoken with several scouts who worry about his defensive foot speed against NBA-level guards, though I think his shot-blocking timing - he averaged 1.4 blocks per game in the NBL - could translate better than expected.

The Pacquiao trainer's quote about giving "the best war" perfectly captures what Sotto needs to demonstrate to NBA decision-makers. He's not just competing against other prospects; he's fighting against preconceived notions about international big men and proving he can adapt to the modern NBA's pace and space. Having watched his development closely, I'm convinced his basketball IQ is underrated - he reads passing lanes well and has shown decent playmaking ability for a center. Still, his physical development needs to continue, as he'll need to add at least 15-20 pounds of muscle to handle NBA post play.

As draft night approaches, I find myself more optimistic than most about Sotto's chances. While many mock drafts have him going undrafted, I wouldn't be surprised if a team like San Antonio or Oklahoma City takes a flier on him in the second round. These organizations have shown patience with international projects before, and Sotto's potential upside is worth the 55th or 58th pick. His journey reminds me of other international success stories that took time to develop, and I believe his work ethic and unique physical tools give him a legitimate shot. The war for an NBA roster spot is indeed on, and like Pacquiao's trainer said, Sotto appears ready to give his best battle yet.