Phenom Hoops certainly has had chances to watch some fantastic prospects over the years.  Players like Zion Williamson, Ja Morant, Dennis Smith Jr., Harry Giles, Bam Adebayo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Coby White and several others have all been a part of the Phenom Hoops platform in some fashion and the list could go on and on.

However, it may have been the first time we have seen a player with the skillset, potential, size, and overall uniqueness that 2020 7’2 Kai Sotto possesses.

People use the term “unicorn” for a player like Sotto and that he is.  Coming from the Philippines, Sotto is still adjusting and continuing to learn the game.  It hasn’t been easy by any means but he has made a huge splash already with his game.

That is why college programs have already been making him a prime target and after watching his game at the Hargrave Military Challenge, one can easily see why.  

Sotto has that unlimited potential that makes him special and to think that he has only been here in the US for a short time, it almost stops you in your tracks to think what he could be in the coming years. 

A unique blend of size and offensive feel grabs your attention immediately, with Sotto showing nice touch, good hands, and ability to knock down shots.  But when you really start dissecting his game, you notice the IQ that he plays with, the footwork he has for someone that stands at 7’2, and his ability to not just be a player that controls the paint. 

There aren’t many in the world that have such a blend of talent and can impact the game in so many ways.  Young big men like him aren’t supposed to have the vision like he does, the offensive touch and feel in the half-court or in transition, and still have room to grow with his game.

That is what is scary to think about with Sotto, as he continues to put in the hard work and accomplish his goals in the future.

What will the finished product look like?

Sotto mentioned he has watched film on players such as Hakeem Olajuwon, Kristaps Porzingis, Nikola Jokic, and others; you can see that he has flashes of each in his game.  And just like them, Sotto has the potential to be an absolute star and the next “unicorn.”

Sotto has a chance to make his own legacy.