Adelaide 36ers NBL Next Star Kai Sotto declares for 2022 NBA Draft

Adelaide 36ers’ Filipino sensation Kai Sotto has declared for the 2022 NBA Draft after just one season in the NBL as a Next Star prospect.

Adelaide 36ers’ NBL Next Star sensation Kai Sotto has declared for the 2022 NBA Draft.

The Filipino big man had a great end to NBL22 with the 36ers, with increased minutes in CJ Bruton’s rotation, scoring double-figures in his last two games and had a career-high 21 points against Brisbane.

The 19-year-old announced his draft declaration on his Instagram, while thanking the 36ers for helping him develop during the 2022 season.

“I have declared for the 2022 NBA Draft. Please pray for and support me during my quest to fulfil my ultimate dream,” Sotto wrote on Instagram.

“Thank you, Adelaide! Thank you, Australia! It has been an unforgettable year!

“To the 36ers management, my teammates, my coaching staff and my agent Joel Bell, I am a better man and a better professional player than a year ago because you all took me under your wing and challenged and mentored me to live up to expectations.

Kai Sotto slam dunks during the win against Sydney. Picture: Jenny Evans/Getty Images

“To all the fans both old and new who support and even travel to games, and have lifted me up on this incredible journey, I am so blessed and inspired when I read your messages and hear your cheers!”

The biggest shock was the fan MVP vote, which was won by Sotto.

Sotto produced a decent season for the 36ers, averaging 7.52 points and 4.48 rebounds, but he isn’t anywhere near the league’s MVP.

It appears the passionate Filipino vote got the 36ers big man across the line.

If Sotto gets selected, he will be the third 36ers player drafted to the NBA after Terrance Ferguson and Josh Giddey, who both went to Oklahoma City Thunder.