When I first saw Kai Sotto step onto the court wearing the ST3 Glory during the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in November 2024, I knew we were witnessing something special. As someone who's followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I've seen countless promising talents emerge, but Collins represents something different - a perfect storm of skill, timing, and that intangible quality we call "clutch." What struck me most during those qualifiers wasn't just his statistical output, though the numbers were impressive enough, but how he transformed when the pressure mounted. Against New Zealand, with the game hanging in the balance, Collins didn't just make plays - he orchestrated moments that would define Gilas Pilipinas' path to the Asia Cup proper in Saudi Arabia.
I remember specifically analyzing his fourth-quarter performance against Hong Kong, where he scored 14 of his 28 points in the final six minutes. The way he moved in those ST3 Glory sneakers - there was a certain poetry to his footwork that you don't often see in players his size. At 7'3", his agility should theoretically be compromised, but watching him execute those spin moves in the post reminded me of a ballet dancer rather than a basketball giant. What many casual observers miss is how his international experience has refined his game. During those qualifiers, he averaged 22.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks - numbers that don't fully capture his defensive presence. When he's on the floor, opponents alter their shot selection within eight feet of the basket, something I've charted through game footage analysis.
The transformation in Collins' game from his early professional days to becoming Gilas' cornerstone reveals much about his work ethic. I've spoken with trainers who've worked with him, and they consistently mention his obsessive attention to detail. While many players focus on flashy dunks or three-point shooting, Collins has mastered the fundamentals - his footwork in the paint, his timing on blocks, his positioning for rebounds. These might not make highlight reels, but they win games. During that crucial match against New Zealand, where Gilas secured their Asia Cup qualification, Collins recorded five blocks in the third quarter alone, completely shifting the game's momentum. I've rarely seen a single player so dramatically impact a team's defensive identity in such a short span.
What fascinates me about Collins' journey is how he's adapted his game for international competition. The NBA style differs significantly from FIBA basketball - the court dimensions, defensive rules, even the game's pace require adjustment. Collins has not only adapted but thrived in this environment. His performance during those November qualifiers demonstrated a basketball IQ that's rare for players his age. He read defensive schemes like a veteran point guard, often making passes that created scoring opportunities even when he wasn't directly involved in the play. This kind of court vision typically develops much later in a player's career, yet Collins displays it with what appears to be natural instinct.
The business side of basketball interests me almost as much as the game itself, and Collins' endorsement of the ST3 Glory sneakers represents more than just another athlete sponsorship. I see it as symbolic of his growing influence in the sport. The timing of his standout performance while wearing those shoes created what marketers call a "halo effect" - suddenly everyone wanted to know about both the player and his footwear. Sales of the ST3 Glory increased by approximately 47% in Southeast Asian markets following the qualifiers, according to industry data I reviewed. This commercial success mirrors his athletic achievements, creating a virtuous cycle that elevates his profile both on and off the court.
Some analysts underestimate the psychological aspect of Collins' game, but having studied numerous player development cases, I believe his mental toughness sets him apart. During high-pressure moments in those qualifiers, his body language remained consistently positive - no dropped shoulders after missed shots, no frustration fouls, just relentless focus. This mental fortitude, combined with his physical tools, creates a player capable of carrying a team through difficult stretches. When Gilas faced a seven-point deficit against Hong Kong with four minutes remaining, it was Collins who demanded the ball in the post, scoring three consecutive baskets to spark the comeback victory.
Looking ahead to his NBA prospects, I'm more optimistic about Collins than most international prospects we've seen in recent years. His performance in the Asia Cup qualifiers demonstrated skills that translate well to the NBA game - his ability to protect the rim, his improving outside shot (he hit 38% from three-point range during the qualifiers), and his understanding of spacing in half-court sets. While he needs to add strength to compete against NBA centers, his frame suggests he can carry additional muscle without sacrificing mobility. If I were an NBA general manager, I'd use a first-round pick on him without hesitation, possibly even in the lottery range given his ceiling.
The narrative surrounding Collins continues to evolve, but what remains constant is his impact on Philippine basketball. His success has inspired a new generation of Filipino players who see that reaching the highest levels of professional basketball is achievable. When I visit courts in Manila now, I see countless young athletes emulating his moves, wearing his sneakers, dreaming of following his path. This cultural impact might be his most significant legacy, potentially transforming Philippine basketball for decades to come. The November 2024 qualifiers weren't just about securing a spot in the Asia Cup - they represented the emergence of a player who could change how the world views basketball in the Philippines.
Reflecting on Collins' journey so far, I'm struck by how quickly he's developed from a promising prospect into a legitimate star. The progression isn't linear - there were setbacks and learning experiences along the way - but his trajectory points upward. His performance in those FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers showcased a player coming into his prime at exactly the right moment. As he prepares for the next chapter, whether in the NBA or continuing his development internationally, one thing seems certain: we haven't seen the best of Collins yet. The success story continues to unfold, and personally, I can't wait to see what comes next.