First Day ng Gilas Practice. KAI SOTTO Ganado. Final 12 Starting 5. Combo Bigs Duo Malakas na Umpisa

First Day ng Gilas Practice: KAI SOTTO Ganado, Final 12 Starting 5, Combo Bigs Duo Malakas na Umpisa

The excitement surrounding the Gilas Pilipinas basketball team has been building up, and it’s safe to say that the first day of practice did not disappoint. With anticipation running high for the upcoming international competitions, all eyes were on the court as the team geared up for the challenge ahead. The spotlight, as expected, shone brightly on the towering Kai Sotto, and his energy was palpable. But there was more to this practice than just one player’s performance—this was a sneak peek into what could be a game-changing lineup for the national team.

KAI SOTTO Ganado: A Dominant Presence

Kai Sotto’s presence on the court is something that can never be overlooked. As one of the most promising young talents to come out of the Philippines, Sotto’s development and commitment to his craft are evident. On the first day of practice, he showed why he remains a central figure in Gilas’ plans.

The 7’3” big man came in with an energized mindset, ready to prove he is in top form for the challenges that lie ahead. His movements were fluid, his shots were sharp, and his leadership stood out. But beyond just his skills, what made his performance especially notable was the sheer determination and passion he displayed during drills. Sotto wasn’t just participating—he was hungry to elevate the team and make a statement.

The Final 12: A Solid Core for Gilas

While the individual performance of Sotto stole the spotlight, there were some key takeaways from the first practice session. Head coach Chot Reyes has been known for his strategic decisions, and it looks like the final 12 players in the Gilas roster are ready to build a cohesive and powerful unit.

The intensity in the practice session was high, and with the final lineup nearing its completion, every player on the court knew they were fighting for a spot in the rotation. The chemistry between players is crucial in any team sport, and based on this first session, it seems like Gilas is already heading in the right direction. With such a diverse mix of skill sets and personalities, there’s no doubt that the team is poised for success, provided they can maintain this high level of commitment.

Combo Bigs Duo: Malakas na Umpisa

One of the most exciting aspects of Gilas’ lineup is the dynamic duo in the paint—Kai Sotto and his big-man partner. The combination of their size and skill sets is a nightmare for opposing teams. This “Combo Bigs” duo has the potential to dominate the competition, especially in the post and on defense.

Sotto’s mobility for his size allows him to play both in the low post and around the perimeter, creating matchup problems for any team. Meanwhile, his partner in crime is no slouch either. Together, their ability to switch on defense, protect the rim, and run the floor as a tandem gives Gilas a versatile and imposing frontcourt. Their chemistry was already evident in their first practice, and if they can continue to develop this partnership, they will be a formidable force in any competition.

The Starting 5: Who Will Step Up?

The question on everyone’s mind is who will make it into the final starting five. As the final 12 players continue to adjust and bond on the court, the real test lies in how Coach Reyes will make his selections. Sotto is almost a guarantee, but who will fill the other spots?

The starting five will have to balance both offensive and defensive responsibilities, with key roles being given to shooters, playmakers, and, of course, big men who can make a difference in the paint. Expect the competition to heat up as players continue to make their case to secure a place in the lineup.

Watch the Full Practice Video!

You don’t want to miss out on the behind-the-scenes action from the first day of Gilas practice. Check out the video below to witness Kai Sotto’s electric performance, the strategic drills, and get an exclusive look at how the final 12 players are shaping up. This is just the beginning—stay tuned for more updates as the team continues to gear up for international competition.

Click here to watch the full video and catch the action firsthand!

With the first day of practice under their belt, Gilas Pilipinas is looking ready to take on the world. Will this be the year they make a mark in international basketball? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: the journey is going to be thrilling!