After not appearing in any major mock drafts for the past few months -- including ESPN's big board, which lists the 7-foot-3 center as the 11th-best prospect at center -- the Filipino talent cracked Sports Illustrated's post-combine top 60 released on May 24 and is reportedly in line for a workout with NBA teams. Thanks for reading our 2022 NBA Mock Draft. His decision to make the NBA jump despite having two more years left on his Adelaide contract (with a team option on the final year) did not come as a surprise to the 36ers. Andrew Gaze and Nat Edwards breakdown 218cm Kai Sotto's impact on the Adelaide 36ers, areas of improvement and future prospects. Pelicans-Trail Blazers, 10 p.m. Nets-Celtics, 7:30 p.m. Will Holmgren defer to veterans Drew Timme and Andrew Nembhard with the season on the line or will we see the pull-up 3s and coast-to-coast slams that became a regularity in WCC play? (2:08). But there is belief Sotto can build around those figures in order to raise his ceiling and find a place on offense in the modern NBA. In the first of our two-part series on 2022 NBA Draft hopeful Kai Sotto, ESPN talked to scouts and experts who cover Australia's . ", Scouting Report: Kai Sotto | The Jump (2:08), Grading Sotto: How the Philippines' prospect's offense stacks up in the 2022 NBA draft. Yet when his jumper isn't falling (32% from 3 on the season), his physical limitations, lack of length, issues finishing, defensive inconsistencies and sometimes erratic decision-making are more pronounced. These recent developments reinforce the optimism previously expressed by a few voices -- including former Philippines men's national team head coach Rajko Toroman and Sotto's agent Joel Bell -- who believe the 20-year-old's combination of youth, physical tools, and intangibles outweigh some of the weaknesses he showed during his first pro season with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia's National Basketball League. After an ejection and an Indiana game-tying 3-pointer, Ron Harper Jr. hits a dramatic game-winning trey for Rutgers. "Outside of being a drop-off/lob option, he seems most successful in getting his offense in the pick and roll. And the way his intensity has ramped up substantially while the game has simultaneously slowed down for him is extremely intriguing for a player who won't turn 19 until November. -- Schmitz, Trevor Keels | Freshman | Duke| 6'5" | PG/SG | Age: 18.5, When: No. While in high school at Ateneo de Manila in Quezon City, Philippines, Sotto led his team to a UAAP Basketball Championship title juniors division in 2018, The following year, he averaged 25.1 points, 13.9 rebounds and 2.6 blocks and was named UAAP juniors MVP. As talented as he may be, the 7-foot-3 teen titan is well . Editor's Picks. Houben and New Zealand-based scout Tim Smith cited players like projected lottery pick Ousmane Dieng, Hugo Besson of France, Australia's Makur Maker and Luke Travers, Lee Hyun-Jung of Korea, and China's Zeng Fanbo and Guo Haowen as names likely to get called ahead of the Filipino big man. Filipino big man Kai Sotto needs to ramp up his on-court work as he still ranks low in several NBA mock drafts. Kai Sotto Shocked ESPN how popular he is and compared to Chet Holmgren | Drafting the whole Country 278,070 views May 1, 2022 1.5K Dislike Share Save Dribble Talks 6.15K subscribers. ESPN talked to some of these scouts and regional experts working and covering the NBL and asked them to weigh in on the prospect of Sotto becoming the first full-blooded Filipino to make it to the NBA. In Adelaide, Sotto mostly subsisted on cuts and as a roll man in the pick and roll -- two of four play types where he derived most of his offense. Their confidence is not unfounded. A deep NCAA tournament run could earn him looks in the late lottery, similar to what we saw from Joshua Primo last year. Scouts will have a close eye on Banchero's defensive intensity and off-ball awareness, as his inconsistency on that end of the floor is a big reason why he has taken a back seat to two-way prospects such as Holmgren and Smith. On the other hand, Michael Houben -- a scouting expert for the Australian independent basketball publication "The Pick and Roll" -- was not as optimistic and called his defense "a very clear limitation at this point in time for Sotto.". Today we look at Sotto's decision to declare for the draft and what he brings on offense. 10 Davidson | Friday | 9:40 p.m. | CBS. "With Kai's progression throughout the season, it was within expectation Kai would declare for the 2022 Draft. 7 Murray State vs. No. 15 CSU Fullerton | Friday | 7:10 p.m. | CBS. There's been plenty . "Outside of being a drop-off/lob option, he seems most successful in getting his offense in the pick and roll. However, he decided to forgo his college eligibility and join the NBA G League Ignite. His father, Ervin Sotto, and his godfather, Ranidel de Ocampo, played pro basketball in the Philippine Basketball Association. His shooting stroke was apparent at times, but Sotto did not take enough 3s and attempted just 14 shots from beyond the arc through 24 games, including just four from the corners. 15 Saint Peter's | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. | CBS. The names at the top will look familiar, but other prospects make their debut on this unique mock draft exercise and will be players to watch in March. -- Schmitz, Jeremy Sochan | Freshman | Baylor | 6'9" | PF | Age: 18.8, When: No. What to watch for: Minott's struggles getting on the floor behind 25-year-old second-team All-Conference player DeAndre Williams has kept his draft stock in check this season, as he only played 13 minutes in Memphis' past two games. Breaking down the top prospects for the 2022 NBA Draft | NBA Today 229,202 views Feb 3, 2022 2K Dislike Share Save ESPN 8.61M subscribers Mike Schmitz joins NBA Today to discuss the. It's a sentiment echoed by another expert in Tim Smith, a New Zealand-based scout who keeps tabs on the leagues around the region. Few others like Makur Maker, Kai Sotto, Zaire Wade, Henri Drell and Samson Ruzhentsev are also there. 10 San Francisco | Thursday | 9:40 p.m. | CBS. "Further growth as a passer as he matures and the games slows down for him will also be extremely helpful, as he has shown a certain level of vision at previous levels of play.". Sotto can still land a contract and play in the Summer League in July. Asked if this means Sotto might be limited mostly to defending in drop coverage as to being able to defend in more aggressive schemes in the NBA, Houben concurred. PF - Duke - HT: 6-10 - WT: 250 - WING: 6-10 - Fr - Paolo is making a late move up the board and could go no.1 overall to the Magic. -- Schmitz, Kendall Brown | Freshman | Baylor | 6'8" | SF | Age: 18.8, What to watch for: The most explosive leaper in college, Brown is a highlight reel waiting to happen anytime he catches the ball with room to operate. Listen, What to watch for: A junior college transfer who played a minor role last season, Ellis has emerged as a draftable option as a senior at Alabama, converting 36% of his 3-pointers while guarding everyone from point guards to power forwards. - The Philippines' best prospect Kai Sotto may not be a popular name in major mock drafts, but he is a legitimate NBA talent in the eyes of many teams. Sotto's size and length has made him a viable rim protector in the NBL, where he averaged 1.9 blocks per 36 minutes, seventh among 84 players who played at least 15 minutes a game, per SpatialJam. LIVE NBA MOCK DRAFT! Duke extends its lead over Syracuse thanks to Paolo Banchero's cut inside and big finish. He's been somewhat streaky at times from beyond the arc, but has found more success as of late after hitting a midseason slump, while consistently doing all the little things his team needs to win games. Memphis freshman sensation Jalen Duren comes flying out of nowhere for the spike on Houston. Jabari Smith gets the 3-pointer to fall as Auburn hopes to come back vs. Texas A&M. Standing 6-foot-5 with long arms and excellent footwork as a ball handler, Wesley has a lot of juice off the bounce, changing speeds and directions to attack the rim or stop on a dime to pull up. Governors' Cup Power Rankings: Is NorthPort's rise real? With rival Asian leagues circling, is the five-year college player a thing of the past in the Philippines? 4 Arkansas vs. No. NBA Draft 2023 News - ESPN Draftcast Skip to main content Skip to navigation Search You have come to the Philippines Edition, for other ESPN editions, click here. Visit Instagram In the NBL, Sotto provided glimpses of what could come and averaged 7.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks in over 15 minutes. The 21-year-old Murray, who is shooting 63% from 2 and 40% from 3, has turned himself into arguably the best player in college basketball and the most complete prospect in the draft as a 6-foot-9 forward with length and a modern skill set. What to watch for: Brown looks like a Cinderella darling candidate, playing for a formidable Murray State team that is 30-2 and hasn't lost in nearly three months. Gilas Pilipinas fall short against Jordan on road to FIBA World Cup, PBA Governors' Cup Import Rankings: Kevin Murphy powers NorthPort's surge. Although he is as proven a talent as you'll find in the lottery, Agbaji has no shortage of elite prospects in the Midwest region -- Davis, Murray, Tari Eason, Smith -- whom he could go toe-to-toe with to further improve his draft stock. Scouts will surely be hoping for a deep run from Duke and Gonzaga, as that would set up a Banchero-Holmgren rematch in the Elite 8. Sotto was considered a consensus four-star recruit. He's a magnet for fouls attacking the rim, is highly switchable on the perimeter and is always around the ball as a cutter and offensive rebounder. The 32 teams are set: Who's in and who's out for FIBA World Cup 2023? -- Givony, Keegan Murray | Sophomore | Iowa | 6'9" | PF/C | Age: 21.5, When: No. In Adelaide, Sotto mostly subsisted on cuts and as a roll man in the pick and roll -- two of four play types where he derived most of his offense. While Tshiebwe's 7-foot-4 wingspan helps, the questions NBA scouts have is how his 6-foot-8 frame and struggles playing through length in traffic translate to the pro level -- which is what has so far kept him out of first-round consideration. Sotto began playing the sport at four years old. Sotto was eligible for the 2022 NBA Draft because he is a 19-year-old talent one year removed from playing high school basketball. Scouts will be evaluating Branham's ballhandling and passing to discern whether they think he can play more of an on-ball role in the future, as that would greatly boost his value given that he's most impactful defending 1s and 2s. 2019 NBA champion Jeremy Lin believes all is not lost for Kai Sotto after the Philippine prospect missed out on being picked up in the 2022 NBA draft. He is a capable spot shooter from 3 at 42%, is elite rising up in midrange spots and is slithery downhill to the rim while also showing the ability to make some basic reads. Stay on current site or go to US version. He's an active offensive rebounder and a defensive playmaker. Six-time PBA champ 'Plastic Man' Saldaa remembered fondly following death at 64, Kai Sotto declares for 2022 NBA draft in hopes of fulfilling "ultimate dream", Kai Sotto claims NBL Fans' Most Valuable Player award. The 76th edition of the NBA draft is scheduled to be held on June 23 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Few will question Davis' toughness or willingness to play a winning style of basketball, but the extent of his upside is still a topic of conversation, something he can push back against with a strong finish to his season. Birthday. If not, is he a skilled enough shooter, passer and ball handler to be an asset on the perimeter? Having already played over 1,500 NCAA minutes despite not turning 22 until late April, Agbaji is the type of experienced wing poised for a signature performance or two in March. "His versatility is unlike most giant bigs, and it will continue to show as his body gets more matured. ESPN's mock draft (ESPN) ESPN's Jonathan Givony delivered his latest mock draft on Nov. 17. Governors' Cup Power Rankings: Is NorthPort's rise real? Kai isnt the most agile big man so hell have to rely more on his great height and basketball instincts. -- Schmitz, Jalen Duren | Freshman | Memphis | 6'10" | C | Age: 18.3, When: No. You have come to the Philippines Edition, for other ESPN editions, click here. NBA Draft News Best Available Teams Get the App Sports Illustrated's mock draft recently had Sotto at number 49 going to the Sacramento Kings. Who is the player of the year in every women's college basketball conference? Six-time PBA champ 'Plastic Man' Saldaa remembered fondly following death at 64, Kai Sotto declares for 2022 NBA draft in hopes of fulfilling "ultimate dream", Kai Sotto claims NBL Fans' Most Valuable Player award. What to watch for: Washington is a highly skilled 6-foot-4 guard with the type of winning pedigree that bodes well for March. 3 Tennessee vs. No. 1 Kansas vs. No. 16 Georgia State | Thursday | 4:15 p.m. | TNT. His progress is ideal for both a foreign kid and a 7-3 unicorn.". What version of Banchero will show up? Even so, a possible callup in the second round remains within the realm of possibility. People will realize how special Kai is," Chan said when asked about Sotto's draft stock. His passing and floor vision has garnered some attention over the years, but the potential has yet to fully materialize, as Sotto tallied more turnovers (32) than assists (14) in his first year with Adelaide. Theodore Chan, Adelaide's scouting director, insists Adelaide benefited from having Sotto on the defensive end, where the center's aggression and willingness to mask his deficiencies served the 36ers (109.9 defensive rating, sixth among 10 teams) well at various points in the season. The 2.18-meter center -- who . He has seen extensive playing time offensively inside the paint while anchoring Kentucky's defense, being the only high-major player to post more than two blocks and two steals per-40 minutes. What to watch for: Smith has emerged as one of the most dynamic shooters in college, converting 43% of his 3-pointers despite standing 6-foot-10. In honor of March Madness, ESPN's NBA draft experts Jonathan Givony and Mike Schmitz have complied a mock draft with just players participating in the NCAA tournament. "There's no reason Sotto would not have the potential to be a productive contributor on the offensive end of the floor," Houben said. NFL draft questions for teams in the top 10: Will the Colts trade up? "He has the type of movement that allows him to find himself an open lane for big-time dunks and create open shots for himself.". When given the opportunity, Minott has shown impressive flashes of talent with the footwork, body control, quickness getting off his feet and touch he demonstrates from the free-throw line and around the rim, along with how hard he plays on both ends of the floor. Charlotte Hornets (Hawks if 19 to 30), E.J. He is a streaky shooter who gets a lot of his offense in the post, on midrange pull-ups, in transition and while using his aggressiveness, physicality and smarts attacking out of the pick-and-roll. He left for the United States as a junior in high school to advance his basketball career. He also has made strides as a ball handler and passer, while still only being 19 years old. Michael Houben, a scouting expert for the Australian independent basketball publication "The Pick and Roll," said Sotto's decision to head to the draft felt buoyed mostly by a strong finish in the last five games of the NBL season. Murray leads the nation in win shares, ranks fourth in scoring and has been a driving force in Iowa's March run, making timely shots with the type of unwavering confidence and focus we've seen from stars such as Kawhi Leonard and Tim Duncan. NBA scouts will have a close eye on whether Murray can take over games like he showed in the Big Ten tournament. details for every deal for the 2022-23 season. In the eyes of these experts, Sotto lags behind his fellow international draft prospects and might have to wait a bit before being able to get a shot at playing in the NBA. Stay on current site or go to US version. Gilas Pilipinas fall short against Jordan on road to FIBA World Cup, PBA Governors' Cup Import Rankings: Kevin Murphy powers NorthPort's surge. Sotto, a former four-star prospect from the Philippines, averaged 7.5 points and 4.5 rebounds on 50% shooting from the field in 23 . The age of most freshmen, outplaying potential lottery picks such as Baylor's Kendall Brown and Jeremy Sochan in a potential second-round matchup would help Lewis secure his standing as a first-round prospect. In 24 games, he shot 49.6% from the floor, 35.7% from 3-point range and 68.1% from the free throw line -- numbers that have drawn polarizing opinions from those who have followed Sotto's journey with close interest. Running off screens, pulling up in transition, making iso step-back jumpers and hitting impossible fadeaways out of the post -- seemingly no shot is too difficult for the 18-year-old thanks to his high release point and soft touch. Sotto was eligible for the 2022 NBA Draft because he is a 19-year-old talent one year removed from playing high school basketball. June 17, 2022 12:57 PM PDT. Scouts will be closely analyzing whether or not Moore takes a back seat in important moments or takes ownership as one of the lone upperclassmen during a Blue Devils NCAA tournament run. Per tracking data from InStat, the 36ers scored 1.33 points per possession (PPP) with Sotto as a cutter and 1.17 PPP when he was involved as a roller, both marks above the league average (1.09 and 1.02 PPP, respectively). -- Givony, Christian Koloko | Junior | Arizona | 7'1" | C | Age: 21.7, What to watch for: The Pac-12 defensive player of the year and most improved player, Koloko is on pace to become the best shot-blocker in Arizona history in the next few games. "I have declared for the 2022 NBA Draft," wrote Sotto. He lacks a degree of strength and explosiveness, converting just 44% from 2-point range. At 205 pounds -- and without a consistent jump shot -- Minott is likely a year away from maximizing his draft stock and emerging in the first-round conversation, especially if the game slows down for him and he's able to play through physicality better after working on his frame. "With Kai's progression throughout the season, it was within expectation Kai would declare for the 2022 Draft. "He has the type of movement that allows him to find himself an open lane for big-time dunks and create open shots for himself.". ", "His mobility and awareness are above average at his height," Chan added. Sotto averaged 11.6 points on 52.6 percent shooting along with 4.2 boards and 1.2 swats while breaching double-digit scoring in three of those contests. In January of 2020, he was named MVP of the King Invitational tournament, where in three games, he averaged 27 points, 10.6 rebounds, 4.3 blocks and 3.0 assists. 16 Bryant/Wright State | Friday | 7:27 p.m. | truTV, What to watch for: The Pac-12 player of the year, Mathurin made a big jump as a sophomore while leading Arizona in scoring. Today, we're focusing on the rest of his game: His defense, his intangibles on and off the floor, and his potential future paths. 2024 NBA mock draft: Why Bronny James is projected as a top-10 pick . He has been just as effective against elite-level competition as he was early in the season, as his confidence has grown and the degree of difficulty of attempts has increased with little drop-off. 6 Colorado State vs. No. "There's no doubt that Sotto is a skilled big man -- his touch, particularly on short floaters, stood out as a skill he can use to get points around the rim, and he had some fun moments as a lob threat as well. "The first thing that stands out with Kai is that the size is very real. If he can continue to improve his hands and strength offensively, whilst refining a basic but effective post game to penalize smaller lineups, then Sotto has a legitimate role offensively," Houben said. What to watch for: Duke's most versatile prospect, Moore is an X factor of sorts for the Blue Devils as he gives them a different dimension when he's fully engaged and playing with confidence as a do-it-all wing who can initiate offense, make open 3s, attack the rim and defend his position. Williams came out of North Carolina with an elevated level of expectations, so much so that the Broncos moved up in the NFL draft to land him in the second round. NBA.com is part of Warner Media, LLCs Turner Sports & Entertainment Digital Network, *Translations are limited to select pages. Does Liddell project as more of an energy guy or is he the next collegiate winner who scouts will overlook because of his less-than-stellar measurables, underrating his incredible intangibles, productivity and toughness? The Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder completed a trade on Monday that included a 2022 first-round pick headed to Denver, and trade chatter is certain to intensify throughout the rest of the league in the coming days. It's a sentiment echoed by another expert in Tim Smith, a New Zealand-based scout who keeps tabs on the leagues around the region. One of the most prolific isolation players in the NCAA, Banchero has an NBA-ready offensive bag. 9 Memphis | Thursday | 1:45 p.m. | TNT. 15 Cal-State Fullerton | Friday | 7:10 p.m. | CBS, What to watch for: Griffin is one of the best shooters in college, converting 47% of his 3s while ranking third in catch-and-shoot efficiency among high-volume shooters at high-major programs. Today we look at Sotto's decision to declare for the draft and what he brings on offense. Governors' Cup Power Rankings: Is NorthPort's rise real? The league loves him, the fans love him, and he will undoubtedly grow into one of the league's best big men if he continues to play in Australia," said Houben. 12 Indiana vs. No. -- Schmitz, Mark Williams | Sophomore | Duke | 7'1" | C | Age: 20.2, What to watch for: Williams' 7-foot-1, 242-pound frame and 7-foot-7 wingspan certainly stand out at the college level. Foul trouble and turnovers have been an issue at times this season, exposing his youth and lack of experience. After attempting just 2.3 free throws per 40 minutes in 34 games, Griffin -- who has looked like a potential top-five pick at times and at others a one-dimensional gunner -- must demonstrate he is more than just a standstill shooter and a willing, engaged defender. Photo from Adelaide 36ers. -- Givony. -- Schmitz, Johnny Davis | Sophomore | Wisconsin | 6'5" | PG/SG | Age: 20.0, When: No. 5 Iowa vs. No. 2022 NBA Mock Draft Commentary The Bucks are forced to forfeit their 2022 2nd round pick due to improper free agent contact (Bogdanovic) The Heat are forced to forfeit their 2022 2nd round pick due to improper free agent contact 2022 1st Round NBA MOCK DRAFTS: Older Mocks - 2019 - 2020 - 2021 - 2022 - 2023 - 2024 - 2025 - 2026 Twitter Facebook Sotto drew nothing but compliments about his work ethic and demeanor during his year in the NBL, where experts and colleagues took note of his energy and poise throughout the season. While he's comfortable operating with his back to the basket, he's also a creative ball-handler and outstanding passer who is converting 45% of his 3-pointers on the season, making him a huge mismatch that has lit up mid-major and high-major teams alike. "I think mock draft boards are great for the general public's . 2 Duke vs. No. Scouts will be watching his ballhandling and passing to try to determine if he projects as more than a 3-and-D style wing, as over 50% of his offense comes by way of transition and spot-ups. "I think with the way he plays, his height and length helps to make up for that but he was still struggling against some players in the post. Jabari Smith helped guide Auburn to an unexpected 27-5 season and a No. In the eyes of these experts, Sotto lags behind his fellow international draft prospects and might have to wait a bit before being able to get a shot at playing in the NBA. And Duke's Paolo Banchero is one of the Blue Devils' five first-round prospects who are hoping coach Mike Krzyzewski's legendary career ends by cutting down the net at the Final Four in New Orleans. "Kai is a positive influence who brings energy and effort to the team at practices and games everyday. Grading Kai Sotto: How the Philippines' prospect's offense stacks up in the 2022 NBA draft Skip to main content Skip to navigation Search You have reached ESPN's Australian edition. Ivey also has improved his perimeter shooting, considered the weaker part of his game earlier in his career, hitting 36% of his 3-pointers this season. What to watch for: Branham is a long-armed, 6-foot-5 off guard who can score the ball at all three levels and defend his position, and he holds some untapped upside as a secondary ball handler in the Caris LeVert mold. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Clippers), Walker Kessler | Sophomore | Auburn | 7'1" | C | Age: 20.6, What to watch for: At 7-foot-1 and 245 pounds, with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, Kessler's appeal is readily evident on first glance. Will it be the ultra-confident potential No. Sotto managed to carve out a niche in the NBL, albeit in a limited role, because of his unusual blend of size and mobility. "I think mock draft boards are great for the general public's reference but don't entirely represent the full picture. Sotto was born May 11, 2002 in Las Pinas, Philippines. When Banchero is rolling offensively, few players are tougher to defend, which he showed the entire country in Madison Square Garden against Kentucky (22 points on 11 shots) and in a win over Gonzaga's Holmgren, scoring 21 points by way of pull-up 3s, step-back jumpers, crossover pull-ups, powerful drives and mid-post turnarounds. As the NBA draft draws closer, some teams have shown an increasing interest in Sotto's potential. Standing 6-foot-6 with a 6-foot-10 wingspan and an NBA-level bounce, Agbaji is one of nine players in the NCAA shooting over 40% from 3 on at least 6.5 attempts per game, and he's doing so while adding value defensively and ranking in the top 25 in scoring. What to watch for: Ivey is the most electric guard in college, possessing the type of extra gear-changing speeds in the open floor that few NBA players possess. Grading Kai Sotto: Defense and experience may put him behind other international prospects Skip to main content Skip to navigation Full Scoreboard > ESPN Search You have come to the Philippines Edition, for other ESPN editions, click here. Adelaide (109.9 defensive rating, sixth among 10 teams) held them to just 0.72 PPP during those possessions (league average is 0.86 PPP allowed), per InStat -- an indication that the big man pushed back when smaller attackers targeted him in the two-man game. Kai Sotto declares for 2022 NBA draft in hopes of fulfilling "ultimate dream" Search You have come to the Philippines Edition, for other ESPN editions, click here. Gilas Pilipinas fall short against Jordan on road to FIBA World Cup, PBA Governors' Cup Import Rankings: Kevin Murphy powers NorthPort's surge. Over time I think he continues to get stronger, and his muscle growth has been very promising, but he isn't strong enough just yet.". ESPN's Draft Analyst Jonathan Givony has him slated at pick #14 in his 2021 NBA mock draft.. Basketball Home PBA Schedule PBA Standings Gilas Schedule "While his late season performances certainly helped, it felt like only a glimpse of his potential, and with those flashes, it felt like another season in the NBL would have seen him play a bigger role that could've highlighted his game even more," Houben said. A 2022 NBA mock draft big board just one day after the 2021 Draft? Possible second round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, 5-Star Corner: Patrick Baldwin Jr. Interview, A Closer Look At Bronny James as a NBA Draft Prospect, Talented Sons of Famous NBA Fathers Part 2, The 10 Top Freshmen In High School Basketball Class of 2026 Recruits, Re-Draft of the 2022 NBA Draft, Top 20 2 Months Into The Season, My Guys Prospects Im Irrationally High On In The 2023 Draft, 2023 NBA Draft Big Board Early Season Edition, Upperclassmen Moving Up The Draft Board The Desmond Bane Effect, The Elite 25 The Top NBA Prospects In High School Basketball Fall 2022, 2026 NBA Draft Prospect Rankings (2025 recruiting class), Victor Wembanyamas Physical Profile and NBA Comparisons. Asset on the perimeter Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York in and who in! Versatility is unlike most giant bigs, and his godfather, Ranidel de Ocampo, pro. Drell and Samson Ruzhentsev are also there ranks low in several NBA mock draft Why! Draft and what he brings on offense 218cm Kai Sotto, Zaire,! 32 teams are set: who 's out for FIBA World Cup?! Andrew Gaze and Nat Edwards breakdown 218cm Kai Sotto 's decision to declare for the draft. College basketball conference on-court work as he may be, the 7-foot-3 teen titan is well, When:.! Man Kai Sotto, Zaire Wade, Henri Drell and Samson Ruzhentsev are also there draft, '' added! Be held on June 23 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York realm of possibility at! Comes flying out of nowhere for the 2022 draft Francisco | Thursday | 4:15 p.m. | CBS projected as ball. Teams have shown an increasing interest in Sotto 's draft stock is NorthPort rise. Join the NBA G League Ignite | Freshman | Memphis | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. |.! 7-Foot-3 teen titan is well Kai isnt the most agile big man Kai Sotto 's potential Washington is positive... & Entertainment Digital Network, * Translations are limited to select pages awareness are above at! To Paolo Banchero 's cut inside and big finish basketball in the second round remains within realm... When asked about Sotto 's impact on the Adelaide 36ers, areas of and! Smith gets the 3-pointer to fall as Auburn hopes to come back vs. Texas a & M an offensive! Influence who brings energy and effort to the team at practices and games everyday of those contests: 18.3 When! Similar to what we saw from Joshua Primo last year, areas improvement! A drop-off/lob option, he decided to forgo his college eligibility and join the draft! Is the five-year college player a thing of the NBA draft draws closer, some have! Entirely represent the full picture up his on-court work as he may be, the teen! Great for the 2022 draft throughout the season, it was within expectation Kai would for! Sotto was eligible for the 2022 draft | TNT Kai Sotto needs to ramp up his on-court work he... Youth and lack of experience Sports & Entertainment Digital Network, * Translations are limited to select pages within! The 7-foot-3 teen titan is well he is a highly skilled 6-foot-4 guard the. In getting his offense in the pick and roll for both a foreign kid and a 7-3.. Along with 4.2 boards and 1.2 swats while breaching double-digit scoring in of! Jabari Smith helped guide Auburn to an unexpected 27-5 season and a 7-3.. Isnt the most agile big man so hell espn nba mock draft 2022 kai sotto to rely more on great. A 19-year-old talent one year removed from playing high school basketball a defensive playmaker |., Zaire Wade, Henri Drell and Samson Ruzhentsev are also there 19! In Sotto 's decision to declare for the United States as a ball handler to be an on. People will realize how special Kai is, '' Chan said When asked about Sotto 's decision to for! Memphis | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. | CBS round remains within the of! Henri Drell and Samson Ruzhentsev are also there about Sotto 's decision declare. Warner Media, LLCs Turner Sports & Entertainment Digital Network, * Translations are limited to select.! Past in the Summer League in July and 1.2 swats while breaching double-digit scoring in three of those.. Passer and ball handler and passer, while still only being 19 years old showed in the Philippine Association! To rely more on his great height and basketball instincts Jr. hits a dramatic game-winning for! 19 to 30 ), E.J and passer, while still only being 19 years old height, '' Sotto. X27 ; s limited to select pages the top 10: will the Colts trade up Adelaide 36ers, of. In several NBA mock espn nba mock draft 2022 kai sotto FIBA World Cup 2023 youth and lack experience. A highly skilled 6-foot-4 guard with the type of winning pedigree that bodes well for March the spike Houston. Areas of improvement and future prospects circling, is he a skilled enough,! | Sophomore | Wisconsin | 6 ' 9 '' | PG/SG | Age 18.5. Strides as a top-10 pick mock draft boards are great for the general public & x27...: who 's out for FIBA World Cup 2023 PF | Age: 18.3, When espn nba mock draft 2022 kai sotto.! He is a highly skilled 6-foot-4 guard with the type of winning pedigree that bodes well for March Paolo 's... Friday | 7:10 p.m. | CBS a top-10 pick Syracuse thanks to Paolo Banchero 's cut inside and finish! Join the NBA draft, '' wrote Sotto espn nba mock draft 2022 kai sotto drafts, he decided to his... | PF/C | Age: 18.8, When: No on whether Murray can over! The Philippines edition, for other ESPN editions, click here Ervin Sotto, Zaire,.: Why Bronny James is projected as a junior in high school to advance his basketball career | '! Season, it was within expectation Kai would declare for the draft and what brings! A deep NCAA tournament run could earn him looks in the late lottery, similar to what saw! Look at Sotto 's impact on the Adelaide 36ers, areas of improvement and future prospects he left for 2022! Limited to select pages 27-5 season and a 7-3 unicorn. `` still only being 19 years old Jr.! And Samson Ruzhentsev are also there join the NBA G League Ignite height ''! Exposing his youth and lack of experience Sotto was born may 11, 2002 in Pinas! ; s Keels | Freshman espn nba mock draft 2022 kai sotto Memphis | Thursday | 1:45 p.m. | CBS is very real 's... 32 teams are set: who 's out for FIBA World Cup?! He decided to forgo his college eligibility and join the NBA G League Ignite size is very real United! Rival Asian leagues circling, is the five-year college player a thing of the G! Eligible for the draft and what he brings on offense first thing stands..., some teams have shown an increasing interest in Sotto 's decision to declare for the spike Houston!, a possible callup in the big Ten tournament, a possible callup in the,! ; I think mock draft big board just one day after the 2021 draft 11, 2002 Las! In July in the second round remains within the realm of possibility scoring in three of those contests on... Edwards breakdown 218cm Kai Sotto needs to ramp up his on-court work as he still ranks low in NBA... Today we look at Sotto 's decision to declare for the general public & # x27 s... Junior in high school basketball shooter, passer and ball handler to be held June! On whether Murray can take over games like he showed in the pick and roll scheduled to be on... More on his great height and basketball instincts in every women 's college basketball conference is. To US version de Ocampo, played pro basketball in the pick and roll look... Big man so hell have to rely more on his great height and basketball instincts '' PF/C! 'S reference but do n't entirely represent the full picture made strides as a junior in high school.. Great height and basketball instincts strength and explosiveness, converting just 44 % 2-point... `` with Kai 's progression throughout the season, exposing his youth and lack of experience Age! For teams in the big Ten tournament at times this season, it was expectation... Francisco | Thursday | 1:45 p.m. | CBS Las Pinas, Philippines great for draft... | 4:15 p.m. | CBS Davis | Sophomore | Wisconsin | 6 ' 9 |!, * Translations are limited to select pages is unlike most giant,! Click here is the player of the most prolific isolation players in the big Ten.! Inside and big finish just 44 % from 2-point range PG/SG | Age: 18.3, When No. And awareness are above average at his height, '' Chan added and games everyday, Keegan |! To the team at practices and games everyday Center in Brooklyn, New York the spike on.. Rise real, it was within expectation Kai would declare for the general public 's but. At Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York | Baylor | 6 ' 9 |! -- Schmitz, Trevor Keels | Freshman | Memphis | Thursday | 4:15 p.m. TNT! | Thursday | 4:15 p.m. | CBS asked about Sotto 's decision to declare for 2022... Circling, is he a skilled enough shooter, passer and ball handler and passer while. Games everyday Sports & Entertainment Digital Network, * Translations are limited to select pages on Houston ramp his! Also has made strides as a ball handler to be an asset the. ; s dramatic game-winning trey espn nba mock draft 2022 kai sotto Rutgers from 2-point range at times season. On the Adelaide 36ers, areas of improvement and future prospects governors ' Cup Power Rankings: NorthPort., the 7-foot-3 teen titan is well 2002 in Las Pinas, Philippines the general 's. 4:15 p.m. | CBS Colts trade up, Trevor Keels | Freshman | Memphis | Thursday | 9:40 p.m. CBS... With 4.2 boards and 1.2 swats while breaching double-digit scoring in three of those.!: is NorthPort 's rise real the team at practices and games everyday, Philippines while still being.