JAKARTA – Poy Erram sustained two cracked teeth, including one of which needed to be removed, during the Philippines’ quarterfinal loss to Korea on Monday in the 18th Asian Games at the GBK Basketball Hall.
Erram suffered the injury after diving for the ball in the third quarter of the Nationals’ 91-82 loss to the Koreans, but didn't lose his smile as he recounted the incident to reporters after the game.
“’Yung isa mababalik pa. ‘Yung isa wala na,” said Erram.
The Philippines was still leading, 54-46, when Erram was taken out of the game to be treated in the bench. The Philippines eventually lost to Korea thanks to the fiery three-point shooting by the team.
Many felt Erram’s absence cost the Philippine squad dearly. Erram didn’t score but had four rebounds and two blocks in the game.
Erram begged to differ.
“Siguro nagkulang lang kami as a team. Offensive rebounds, turnovers din kaya nakahabol ‘yung kalaban,” said Erram.
“Kinulang lang talaga. Talo kami sa 50-50 balls. Hindi namin ma-locate mga shooters nila,” the Blackwater center added.
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