Kai Sotto logs limited minutes in NBA Summer League due to reported back pain

Filipino big man Kai Sotto was limited to only around eight minutes of play in the Orlando Magic's 94-77 loss against the Boston Celtics in the NBA 2K24 Summer League on Sunday (Manila time) due to pain in his lower back, according to reports.

The 21-year old center entered the game at the 3:44 mark of the first period and was replaced by Robert Baker at the 5:35 mark of the second quarter. Sotto did not see action in the game after the said substitution.

In his limited playing time, the 7-foot-3 big man registered two rebounds, an assist, and a block.

Sotto made his debut in the Summer League on Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers and posted six points, four rebounds, three blocks, and one assist. 

Prior to his debut, Sotto was benched during Orlando's games against the Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, and the New York Knicks.

Sotto is expected to suit up for Gilas Pilipinas in the upcoming FIBA World Cup in Manila in August.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News