Kai Sotto still expected to join Gilas Pilipinas bubble as FIBA looks for new qualifiers venue

Kai Sotto is still expected to join the Gilas Pilipinas bubble despite the cancellation of the country's hosting of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers in Clark, Pampanga.

The national team is currently in Calamba, Laguna in preparation for the February window as FIBA looks for a new venue to host the games.

In a press release, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) President Al Panlilio said the 18-year-old center is still set to join the team.

"Kai is committed to join the bubble regardless of whether we play here or elsewhere. He has said that he wanted to be here and we're in talks with him to try and bring him here as soon as possible," Panlilio said.

"It's good for him to come in and also learn the system that we're trying to implement in the national team to work with his teammates and have a feel of what the system will be," he added.

Sotto, who is now based in the United States, confirmed last week that he is heading home to honor his commitment to play for Gilas Pilipinas.

The US is listed among the countries affected by the COVID-19 travel restrictions imposed by the Philippines, but Filipino citizens are still allowed to enter the country.

The travel ban is the main reason for canceling the games in Clark, as several countries from Group A and Group C are on the list.

—MGP, GMA News