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Kai Sotto Signs with PBA's Lychee Unicorns and Gilas Pilipinas

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 8:21 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, PHILIPPINES

Manila, Philippines - February 19th, 2026 - In a move reverberating throughout the Philippine basketball landscape, 7'3" center Kai Sotto has officially signed with both the Lychee Unicorns, a PBA expansion team, and the Gilas Pilipinas national team. The announcement, made earlier today, marks a pivotal moment for Sotto's career and is being hailed as a major coup for Philippine basketball. After navigating the complexities of the NBA, Sotto is returning to his roots, bringing with him valuable experience and a renewed focus.

The deal is structured to allow Sotto to play a significant role with the Unicorns during the PBA season, while simultaneously remaining available for Gilas Pilipinas commitments, including training camps and international tournaments like the FIBA Asia Cup and potentially the World Cup. This dual commitment showcases Sotto's dedication to both his professional career and national service.

"I'm excited to be back home and play for the PBA," Sotto stated in a press conference. "I'm also grateful for the opportunity to represent the country with Gilas Pilipinas. This is a dream come true for me, and I'm ready to give everything I have to both teams."

Sotto's journey to this point has been one of considerable ambition and challenge. After a promising youth career, he pursued his NBA dream, spending time with the Orlando Magic and Toronto Raptors, and most recently the Phoenix Suns. While he demonstrated flashes of potential during his time in the NBA, consistent playing time proved elusive. He was waived by the Suns in October of 2024, leaving him seeking a situation where he could develop and showcase his skills more fully.

The Lychee Unicorns, one of the PBA's newest expansion teams, have quickly established themselves as a franchise focused on building a competitive roster through strategic recruitment, particularly targeting Filipino players with overseas experience. Securing Sotto is a massive win for the Unicorns, instantly elevating their profile and providing a marquee attraction for fans. The team is betting that Sotto's presence will not only draw crowds but also inspire a new generation of Filipino basketball players.

Why the Return? Beyond Playing Time

While the pursuit of consistent playing time is undoubtedly a factor in Sotto's decision, analysts believe several other factors contributed to his return. The passionate support of Filipino fans is a major draw. Sotto has consistently expressed his deep connection to his homeland and the fervent basketball culture within the Philippines. Playing in front of a home crowd will allow him to embrace that energy and play with a sense of national pride.

Furthermore, the evolving landscape of international basketball presents new opportunities. The FIBA is increasingly focused on developing talent globally, and a strong performance with Gilas Pilipinas could potentially re-open doors to the NBA or other top international leagues in the future. Sotto's time with the national team will be closely watched by scouts worldwide.

Impact on the PBA and Gilas Pilipinas

Sotto's arrival is expected to significantly impact both the PBA and Gilas Pilipinas. For the PBA, it brings a renewed level of excitement and international attention. The league has long been a breeding ground for talented Filipino players, but the addition of a player with Sotto's size, skill, and potential is unprecedented. It's predicted to boost viewership, sponsorship opportunities, and overall league competitiveness.

For Gilas Pilipinas, Sotto is a game-changer. His presence inside will address a long-standing need for size and rim protection, transforming the team's defensive capabilities. He will also provide a focal point for the offense, creating opportunities for other players. With Sotto in the lineup, Gilas Pilipinas is viewed as a strong contender in upcoming regional and international tournaments. The team is currently preparing for the Southeast Asian Basketball Association (SEABA) Championship later this year, where they are expected to dominate with Sotto leading the charge.

The PBA season is set to begin next month, and all eyes will be on the Lychee Unicorns and their newest star. Kai Sotto's return to the Philippines is more than just a basketball transaction; it's a homecoming that carries the hopes and dreams of a nation.