Poy Erram speaks on off-court struggles affecting his form

Hurling every insult imaginable from fans and netizens following a series of setbacks in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Poy Erram responded with a performance that pushed the series to where it should be—the ‘winner takes all’ Game 7 on Friday, March 28, 2025.

Erram had his own big moments, especially last night, curiously after his verbal spat with coach Chot Reyes in the previous game. He scored 10 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter, complementing his hustle plays with crucial contributions—none bigger than a ball tap that allowed TNT to retain possession following missed free throws by their import.

Erram’s effort on both ends provided support for the standout performances of Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Rey Nambatac as TNT played spoiler, securing an 87-83 win that denied Barangay Ginebra an early championship celebration.

The 35-year-old Cagayan de Oro native was also instrumental in building TNT’s lead, which began when Nambatac drained a four-point play at the end of the third quarter to put TNT ahead, 63-62. Erram then added 10 points in the fourth, including a crucial corner three-pointer that extended the Tropang Giga’s lead to 70-62.

After the game, the former Ateneo Blue Eagle center was pulled aside for an on-court interview, where initial boos from the crowd were eventually drowned out by cheers from TNT fans.

"Now I’m seeking help. I can’t just say, ‘Oh, I’m a man, I don’t need help.’ I do need help," said Erram.

He opened up about the off-court struggles he has been facing during the PBA Finals, admitting that they have affected his performance throughout the series.

"I’m not gonna sugarcoat it—I’ve been a distraction to the team. Some might say I’m just making excuses, but since my father passed away, I’ve been in a tough place. So I’m seeking help, not just for the team, but also for my family and my job," Erram added.

Now, Erram acknowledges the need to address the personal struggles that have contributed to his emotional outbursts—outbursts that have drawn both concern and criticism, depending on the perspective of observers.

In Game 5, much of the audience witnessed Erram engage in a heated argument with Reyes, who was frustrated with the big man’s reaction to a miscue during a timeout huddle.

Meanwhile, in TNT’s Game 2 loss, Erram was seen kicking team equipment on his way back to the locker room, venting his frustration at MOA Arena.

TNT head coach Chot Reyes has since advised Erram to block out distractions and keep his focus on the game.

"We just told him to focus and shut off the noise," said Reyes.