Kai Sotto signs extension with Hiroshima in Japan B.League

(CNN Philippines, May 24) — Kai Sotto has signed a contract extension with the Hiroshima Dragonflies for the 2023-24 Japan B.League season.

The Dragonflies announced Wednesday that the 7-foot-3 agreed to stay with the team for at least a season.

The Filipino cager expressed his gratitude to Hiroshima, which acquired his services as an Asian import after playing for two seasons with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia’s National Basketball League.

“I am so grateful to the club for giving me this opportunity, and I am happy to have the chance to play in Japan next season,” Sotto said in a statement.

Hiroshima general manager Shuji Okazaki said Sotto could opt out of his contract if he lands a spot in an NBA team.

“Kai has an option to sign with an NBA team, so if he signs with an NBA team this summer, there is a possibility that his contract with Hiroshima will be canceled,” the team official said.

Sotto continues to chase his NBA dream as he is set to participate in the NBA Summer League, which will run from July 7 to 17 in Las Vegas.

“The NBA is my biggest dream, so I will continue to work hard and challenge myself in summer league in the United States this summer,” he said.

Sotto suited up in 24 games and started in 19 of them for Hiroshima last season. He averaged 8.92 points, 6.08 boards, and 1.29 blocks.