JAKARTA – Poy Erram was one of the surprise choices in Yeng Guiao's hastily assembled Philippine team for the 2018 Asian Games.
On Tuesday, Erram showed why he deserved to be there.
Showing admirable grit and composure in a surprise start against China, the Blackwater center combined did his share as Gilas Pilipinas/ big men bravely fought twin towers Zhou Qi and Wang Zhelin.
“The size difference was too huge,” said national coach Yeng Guiao, praising a PH frontline that also included Christian Standhardinger, Beau Belga, and Raymond Almazan. “They gave a good account of themselves.”
Erram opened the game with a three-pointer and added another trey late to keep China from pulling away. He also grabbed key rebounds in a stretch that saw the Filipinos take an 80-77 lead into the final minute.
In the end, Erram rued what he termed as 'small mistakes' that cost Gilas in an 82-80 loss to the tournament favorites.
“Sobrang liit na bagay pero malaking epekto sa team. Sobrang sayang talaga. No excuses, move on lang,” said Erram.
The former Ateneo center said he was nonetheless proud of the Philippine team's effort against China's Team A.
“Sa pinakita ng team, maganda. Hindi namin inexpect na ganun lalaruin namin lalo na malaki at mabibilis sila. Sobrang thankful kami na kahit papano, mabigat ‘yung laban,” said Erram.
“For now, malungkot. We were there. Ngayon, pahinga muna and focus sa next game,” he added.
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