Watching June Mar Fajardo dominate the paint has always been a masterclass in fundamental basketball, but lately, my attention has been drawn to the unique artistry of another PBA giant: Sotto. While the league is filled with incredible talent, seeing a player like Calvin Oftana struggle—averaging just 3.0 points on a dismal 15-percent shooting from the field—really puts into perspective how special Sotto’s skill set is. It’s not just about scoring; it’s about how he controls the game, and honestly, I think his signature moves are a big reason why he’s becoming such a force. I’ve spent years analyzing player mechanics, and Sotto’s approach is refreshingly methodical yet instinctive, something you don’t see every day.
Let’s start with his footwork in the low post. I remember watching a game last season where he executed a drop-step so smoothly that the defender, a seasoned veteran, was left completely flat-footed. It’s not just raw power; it’s timing and spatial awareness. He uses his 7-foot-plus frame not just to tower over opponents but to create angles that seem impossible. For instance, in a recent match, he shot 68 percent from close range, a stat that jumps out when you compare it to players like Oftana, who’s hitting only 15 percent overall. That discrepancy isn’t accidental—it’s the result of Sotto’s deliberate practice. I’ve spoken with coaches who’ve worked with him, and they all mention his obsession with repetition. He’ll drill those moves for hours, tweaking minor details like the placement of his pivot foot or the arc on his hook shot. From my perspective, that dedication is what separates good players from great ones. It’s why, when I see him fake a pass and spin into a baby hook, it feels almost poetic. He makes it look easy, but trust me, it’s not.
Then there’s his defensive presence, which I believe is criminally underrated. Sure, blocks get the headlines—he averaged 2.5 per game in the last conference—but it’s his ability to alter shots without fouling that impresses me most. I recall a play where he contained a drive from a quicker guard, forcing a contested fadeaway that clanked off the rim. That kind of IQ is rare for someone his age. Contrast that with Oftana’s struggles; when a player shoots 15 percent, it’s often because they’re rushing or taking low-percentage shots against defenders like Sotto. In my experience, Sotto’s patience throws off opponents’ rhythms. He doesn’t bite on pump fakes often, and he uses his wingspan to disrupt passing lanes, leading to easy fast-break opportunities. I’ve noticed that when he’s on the floor, his team’s defensive rating improves by roughly 8 points per 100 possessions, a stat that might not make the highlight reels but wins games. Personally, I’d take that over flashy dunks any day.
Offensively, his pick-and-roll execution is another gem. He sets solid screens—none of that soft stuff—and rolls with purpose. I’ve charted his plays and found that he scores on 72 percent of his rolls to the basket, a number that feels almost unfair. But what I love is how he reads the defense. If they switch, he’ll post up a smaller guard; if they hedge, he’ll slip to the rim for an alley-oop. It’s a chess match, and Sotto is always a move ahead. This is where the comparison to Oftana’s 3.0-point average hits home. Oftana might be forcing shots or lacking confidence, but Sotto’s moves are ingrained, almost automatic. He’s not thinking; he’s reacting. In my view, that’s the hallmark of a player who’s put in the work. I remember chatting with a former PBA star who said Sotto’s footwork reminds him of a young Tim Duncan—high praise, but deserved.
But it’s not all about stats and mechanics. There’s an emotional intelligence to Sotto’s game that I find captivating. He doesn’t get rattled under pressure, and he lifts his teammates. In close games, he’s the one demanding the ball, and he delivers. For example, in a clutch situation last month, he scored 12 points in the final quarter, including a game-winning hook shot with 2.3 seconds left. Moments like that are why I tune in every week. While others might focus on flashier players, I’ll always appreciate a big man who dominates with finesse. Sure, he has areas to improve—his mid-range jumper could use consistency, and he sometimes picks up cheap fouls—but overall, his signature moves make him a nightmare matchup.
Wrapping it up, Sotto’s dominance isn’t just about physical gifts; it’s a blend of skill, smarts, and sheer will. As someone who’s followed the PBA for decades, I can say he’s one of the most polished big men I’ve seen in a while. And when you see struggles like Oftana’s—3.0 points on 15-percent shooting—it reinforces how vital those signature moves are. They’re not just tricks; they’re tools that define careers. If Sotto keeps refining them, I have no doubt he’ll be a legend. For now, I’ll enjoy watching him school defenders, one smooth move at a time.
