Coach Chot Reyes, known for his measured and diplomatic tone, opened up about Kai Sotto's absence from Gilas Pilipinas practices, expressing his frustrations in a recent interview with CNN Philippines' Sports Desk. While Reyes praised Sotto's talent and revealed that the young center had already committed to playing for the national team in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, he also expressed concern about his non-participation in practices.
Reyes shared that Sotto's handlers informed the team that he needed rest due to an issue with his lower back. However, the coach seemed skeptical about the severity of the injury, questioning the lack of MRI results to verify the situation. While the team's doctor did not find any structural issues, they are waiting for the MRI results from Sotto's handlers to further assess the situation.
Despite the ongoing negotiations and concerns, the SBP has not yet confirmed Sotto's participation, and there are concerns about his supposed request to take two weeks off for physical therapy. The contract stipulates that he should take part in practice no later than July 24, given that the World Cup is just 28 days away.
Reyes stressed that in a team setting, the welfare of the 11 teammates should not be compromised for the needs of one star player. While he appreciates transparency, the blame for any potential setbacks in Gilas should not fall solely on the SBP, but rather on the Kai-Gilas standoff as a whole.
The biggest question is, is this worth it for Gilas?
Revealing the issue in the public means the objective is to put pressure on the camp of Kai to play-on. But what if, the guy is really not healthy?
Okay. What if the doubt of Gilas management is correct and the camp of Kai just want him to rest. Now that you have revealed it to the public and his ego, image and pride is attacked, the risk that he will not play is now on the table.
Is that risk of not having Kai, worth it in exchange of pressuring him and his management to play on?
I am not sure about it.
Comments
Post a Comment