ON the verge of retirement just a few months ago, Poy Erram is now seeking to win his third PBA championship with TNT.
The 6-foot-8 Erram is looking to help the Tropang Giga retain their Governors’ Cup title against Barangay Ginebra in his comeback season after being sidelined for a year following knee surgery to repair MCL tear, a swollen cartilage, and bone spurs.
The road to recovery according to him, was an arduous one that he thought about finally retiring from the game he loves most.
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Erram said he and his wife already talked about it, but didn't tell management about it.
“Napakahirap kasi nung recovery ko. Eight moths na into may rehab, hindi pa rin ako completely healed. May nararamdaman pa rin akong sakit, may maga pa rin siya,” recalled the big man out of Ateneo.
“Sabi ko nga baka hanggang dito na lang talaga yung playing career ko," said Erram. "Di ba nag-retire na nga rin ako sa Gilas, so baka sumunod na rin yung playing career ko."
But on the prodding of his family, teammates, and coaches, the 36-year-old Erram persevered and successfully got back in playing shape.
In no time, he was back wearing the TNT jersey after a year’s absence, and just played a major role in the Tropang Giga reaching the finals anew of the import-laden conference.
His family especially his children were the main inspiration as Erram persevered to make a complete recovery.
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“Naisip ko rin siyempre yung family ko, especially yung mga kids ko. Gusto ko rin na makita nilang naglalaro ako,” he said.
Now not only will his children get to see their father play, but also watch him vie for another championship with the telecommunication franchise.
As the Tropang Giga and Kings begin their title series this Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, Erram will get to renew his match-up with Japeth Aguilar in the frontcourt.
While he’s up to the challenge, Erram said it would still be a team effort to stop the Gilas Pilipinas stalwart in the middle as he expects help coming from former MVP Kelly Williams and sophomore big man Henry Galinato.
For the eliminations, Erram averaged 8.2 points and 4.4 rebounds, while raising the ante in the playoffs by submitting numbers of 10.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.8 steals, and 2.0 blocks.
“We worked hard for this and we’re giving even more para manalo,” said Erram.
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