Kai Sotto NAIKUMPARA ang SISTEMA ni CTC sa ibang Coach na taga Screen at Rebound lang siya

Kai Sotto: Comparing Coach Chot Reyes’ System to Other Coaches Who Limit Players to Screening and Rebounding

Kai Sotto, the towering Filipino basketball prodigy, has consistently been the subject of heated debates within the basketball community. His height, skills, and potential have earned him comparisons to some of the world’s best young big men. However, questions surrounding his utilization in various basketball systems, particularly under Coach Chot Reyes in the Gilas Pilipinas program, have sparked a broader conversation. Is Sotto merely a screen-and-rebound player under Reyes’ system, or is there more to his role?

Understanding Kai Sotto’s Skillset

Kai Sotto stands out as a unique talent in basketball. At 7-foot-3, he is not just a towering presence; he has a polished offensive arsenal, including a soft touch around the rim, mid-range shooting, and even a developing three-point shot. Defensively, his length makes him a natural shot-blocker and rim protector. But what truly sets him apart is his basketball IQ and playmaking ability, uncommon for someone of his size.

Given these attributes, basketball fans and analysts have questioned whether Coach Chot Reyes fully leverages Sotto’s potential in the Gilas Pilipinas system.

The Role of Kai Sotto in the Gilas System

Under Reyes, Sotto’s role often appears restricted. Critics argue that the system places him in limited scenarios—setting screens, boxing out, and rebounding. While these are vital aspects of basketball, they don’t fully utilize Sotto’s potential as a dynamic offensive player who can score in the post, stretch the floor, and even create opportunities for his teammates.

This approach contrasts sharply with how other coaches have utilized Sotto in leagues like the NBL (Australia), where he played for the Adelaide 36ers. There, he was given the freedom to operate in the post, take mid-range jumpers, and even run in transition.

Comparison with Systems of Other Coaches

Screen-and-Rebound Specialists

Some coaches adopt a rigid system where big men are relegated to setting screens and grabbing rebounds. These systems prioritize guards and wings, often sidelining the creative abilities of skilled big men like Sotto. While such systems can be effective for certain styles of play, they can stifle the growth and confidence of young players who have the tools to do more.

For example, in international tournaments, teams like Lithuania or Spain often utilize big men not just for their size but also as playmakers and scorers. In contrast, limiting Sotto to basic roles in the Gilas system risks underutilizing his potential.

Flexible Systems

Coaches who recognize and adapt to the unique skills of their players often achieve better results. In Sotto’s case, coaches like Brian Goorjian (who coached Australia’s Boomers) or even his former Adelaide 36ers coach CJ Bruton showed how versatile systems could empower big men. They allowed Sotto to flourish in different roles—stretching the floor, playing pick-and-roll, and even isolating against mismatches.

The Long-Term Impact of Limiting a Player’s Role

Limiting Sotto’s role to a screen-and-rebound player can have long-term consequences. First, it could hinder his development by not challenging him to explore his full skillset. Second, it might affect his confidence and visibility, especially as he aims for higher leagues like the NBA. Teams scouting Sotto want to see him operate as a complete player, not just someone who fits into a single-dimensional role.

What Should Change?

More Offensive Freedom
Sotto should be given opportunities to play in the post and take on scoring responsibilities. His footwork and touch around the basket are advanced for his age and size, and these should be focal points in any offensive system.
Pick-and-Pop Opportunities
While screens are part of a big man’s job, Sotto should also be utilized in pick-and-pop scenarios where he can showcase his shooting ability. This will make him more unpredictable and harder to guard.
Playmaking from the High Post
With his height and passing vision, Sotto can excel as a playmaker from the high post, creating opportunities for his teammates while keeping defenses honest.

Conclusion

Kai Sotto is not just a player who sets screens and rebounds. He is a rare talent with the potential to redefine how big men are utilized in modern basketball. While Coach Chot Reyes’ system has its merits, it must evolve to maximize Sotto’s unique skillset. Comparing his role in Gilas to how other coaches use him highlights the need for flexibility and innovation.

Basketball is a team sport, but empowering individual players like Sotto can elevate the entire team. For Gilas Pilipinas to succeed on the global stage, they must embrace the full potential of their brightest star.