RECENTLY took part in the sixth annual Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global Camp in Chicago in the United States, young Filipino hoops star Kai Sotto said he savored the opportunity given to him to further develop his skills in such a setup even as he hoped that more Filipino players get to experience such.
Mr. Sotto, who is currently in the United States honing his game, was part of 64 boys and girls gathered by the National Basketball Association (NBA)and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) from different parts of the world to be trained at the camp held at Quest Multisport which was among the activities at the recent NBA All-Star 2020.
At the camp, the participants were led by players and coaches from the NBA, including BWB alumnus and now NBA All-Star Pascal Siakam of the Toronto Raptors, through a variety of activities on and off the court, including movement efficiency, skill development stations, shooting and skills competitions, 5-on-5 games, and life skills seminars focusing on health, leadership and communication.
The final day featured a single-elimination tournament culminating with the boys and girls championship games.
“The best part of the BWB camp is competing with the best players from all around the world and to be coached by coaches from the NBA. There is so much talent around and it’s just an honor to be here,” said Mr. Sotto of his time in the camp.
“One of the takeaways here for me is to continue to compete but at the same time have fun along the way,” added the Jr. NBA Philippines program product.
Sotto joined fellow Gilas Pilipinas cadet AJ Edu (2027) as among those Filipinos who got to experience training at the Basketball Without Borders camp.
He said he hopes more players get to make it to the BWB camp and be part of its program.
“Hopefully more Filipino players can come here and represent the country,” Mr. Sotto said.
