Filipino Star Kai Sotto 'Feels Good' After Magic Debut

The Orlando Magic, behind a poor first half, lost its fourth straight Summer League game, this time in a 88-71 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. 

For the Magic, center Kai Sotto was able to make his debut in any form of NBA action. He watched three full games from the sidelines before he was able to get his opportunity. 

"It's a good first game, just to go out there and compete," Sotto said. "We learned a lot from these games. I think we were pretty good defensively. Just got to work on getting better looks and got to make shots."

Though the team lost, Sotto was able to get a feel for the flow of the game in Summer League.

"The Summer League game is more fast-paced," Sotto said. "You know, it's a lot of young players trying to prove that they can play in the NBA game and environment. Everybody is pretty skilled and everyone is ready to show that they're worthy of a roster spot."

Sotto played 13 minutes, putting up six points and four rebounds when given the opportunity. At 7-2, it's no surprise Sotto was able to put together a quick impact on the inside of the court. 

"Offensively, it'll come to me. I'm a good teammate, so I'm really a willing passer for a big guy. I'm just going to let the game come to me," Sotto said. 

Sotto also reiterated that his focus on the court was to provide a big, good paint presence defensively. He finished the game with three blocks in his limited action.

Though he hasn't been able to play much, the 21-year-old has a huge following. His overseas fans are actively rooting for him and he's got a big group of fans hoping he can work his way into a role with an NBA team. 

"It feels good," Sotto said of the loud supporting him. "To have a lot of guys cheering for you, it's a blessing... Hopefully I make them happy."

As the tallest Filipino player of all time, it makes sense why his country is cheering him on so much and rooting for him to make it to the big league. 

"It's a blessing each and every day to be out here," Sotto said in a message to his fans in the Philippines. "I'm just happy to be supported by a lot of people."

Sotto and the Magic play in the final Summer League contest Saturday against the Boston Celtics. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on NBA TV.

You can follow Kade Kimble on Twitter @KadeKimble.

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