Gilas Pilipinas player Kai Sotto suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a game with his team, the Koshigaya Alphas, in the Japan Basketball League.
Sotto sustained the injury early in the first quarter of their January 5 clash with the Sea Horses Mikawa, a game in which his team lost by a slim 77-79 margin.
The 22-year-old cager flew to Tokyo to undergo an MRI on his left knee, and due to the injury, it is expected to take up to six months before the 7-footer can return to action on the court.
This injury puts his participation in the third and final window of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers next month in jeopardy, as Gilas Pilipinas will square off against Chinese Taipei and New Zealand.
Meanwhile, Sotto confirmed the injury in a social media post, expressing his gratitude for the support he has received as he faces this challenge.
"The worst way to start the year, might be the darkest day of my basketball career, when i was told i tore my ACL. Tough to let this one sink in," said Sotto.
"I appreciate all the love and support everyone has given me these past few days. I know God has a better plan for me and we just have to keep going," he added.
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While injuries are a common challenge for athletes, an ACL tear is especially impactful. It compromises stability and balance, hinders movement, leads to significant pain and swelling, and typically requires a prolonged recovery time of six to nine months.
