Kai Sotto Targets January 2026 Return After ACL Injury

Gilas Pilipinas big man Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return from a torn ACL as he continues his recovery and shows support to his national team teammates ahead of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

Sotto, who tore his ACL at the start of the year, has already started putting up shots during Gilas’ training sessions at the Upper Deck in Pasig City. While he will not be able to play in the first window of the qualifiers next week, he remains committed to joining the team in Guam. His goal is clear: Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return to basketball action.

In an interview, the 7-foot-3 center emphasized his timeline for returning to full play.

“Target sana January. Hopefully, walang maging setback. Sana smooth pa rin hanggang… yun ang target. Sana makalaro na ako by January,” Sotto said, confirming that Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return.

While he is still unable to participate in full team practices, Sotto follows a personalized program involving shooting drills, weight training, and rehab exercises.

“On track naman… Hindi pa ako pwede mag-join sa team practices. Pero may mga sariling program na ako sa court, sa weight room, at sa rehab part. Pero hindi pa ako pwede sa team practices. May sariling na akong program,” he explained. This reinforces that Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return despite current limitations.

Sotto admitted that being around team practices brings mixed emotions, including a touch of envy, but it motivates him to focus on his rehabilitation and eventual comeback.

“Sobrang nakaka… I won’t say gigil, pero iba yung feelings ko mula nung na-injure ako hanggang ngayon. Laging iniisip kung ano yung pakiramdam ulit pag nakalaro ako. Ayoko rin nanonood ng practice kasi mas naiingit ako, pero pag nanonood ako with the team, mas nagaganahan akong mag-rehab at mag-focus sa recovery para mas makabalik nang maayos at makatulong sa team,” Sotto said, showing the determination behind why Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return.

Gilas head coach Tim Cone confirmed that Sotto will join the team at Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna, participating in light defensive drills and observational learning.

“Kai is going to be there in Inspire, but he’s doing soft defense against guys at the post. He didn’t have to do it, he could’ve stayed on the side. But he came in and participated while continuing rehab and weight training,” Cone said. This highlights how Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return while still contributing to the team.

Cone also emphasized the benefits of Sotto’s presence for team chemistry and continuity.

“The thing about Inspire is we’re together not just for practice, but also for meals, weights, and post-practice video sessions. Literally, we’re together about 12 hours a day. This continuity allows immediate follow-up, more learning, and makes our time together much more efficient,” the coach explained, supporting why Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return in a structured and effective recovery program.

With his rehab progressing steadily and his dedication to both personal recovery and team involvement, it’s clear that Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return to make a strong comeback for Gilas Pilipinas.

FAQ-Kai Sotto Targets January 2026 Return

1.When is Kai Sotto expected to return to basketball?

Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return after recovering from a torn ACL, aiming to rejoin Gilas Pilipinas fully on the court.

2.Why is Kai Sotto not playing in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers first window?

Although present with the team, Sotto is still undergoing rehab and cannot participate in full practices. Despite this, Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return and will continue his recovery program.

3.How is being around the team helping Kai Sotto?

Watching and participating in limited drills motivates Sotto to focus on rehab and recovery. This involvement contributes to why Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return efficiently and safely.

4.Will Kai Sotto play immediately after recovery?

The goal is for Sotto to return fully in January 2026, but he will gradually reintegrate into team practices and competitive games to ensure a safe and strong comeback, reflecting how Kai Sotto targets January 2026 return.