Good thing now three-time champ Poy Erram of TNT did not push through with quitting basketball.
Poy Erram let it all out after TNT conquered Ginebra for the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup title on Friday, Nov. 8.
Drenched in sweat after a hard-fought 95-85 clincher in Game 6, Erram screamed at the top of his lungs and gave everyone who supported him throughout his career the warmest hugs.
The 6-foot-7 cager then marvelled at the Governors’ Cup trophy 12 teams vied for in the import-spiced conference that was littered with challenges for the Tropang Giga and for Erram himself.
[RELATED STORY: In Photos: TNT defends Governors' Cup throne against Ginebra ambush in Game 6 of PBA Finals]
Poy Erram gives a high five as the TNT Tropang Giga celebrate at centercourt in the championship-clinching Game 6 of their PBA Season 49 Governor's Cup duel with the Ginebra Gin Kings on Friday, Nov. 8. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
Months ago, Erram was seriously mulling over calling it quits after a dreadful recovery from an MCL tear and bone spurs.
Ultimately, he did not push through with it.
With a solid support system that included his family and coach Chot Reyes, he soldiered on and gave the game another shot.
[ALSO READ: Chot Reyes plays down PBA Finals tally vs Tim Cone: ‘That means very little to me’]
“Looking back I’m thinking of retiring na rin. Pero naalala ko 'yung sinabi ni coach Chot na stay loyal to your work, stay consistent,” Erram said.
“Siyempre nakikita ko sila every day, ayokong sabihin nilang nag-give up ako kaagad.”
It turned out, he made the right decision.
Had he retired, Erram would not have soaked in the euphoria brought forth by winning a third PBA championship with the Tropang Giga.
“I stayed loyal. Naging crucial din ang support system ko. Binigyan nila ako ng advice na kaya ko pa. So, 'yun, it shows na kaya ko pa nga talaga,” Erram said.
Now the 36-year-old can’t help but feel blessed with this recent achievement, which is a reminder that with grit and perseverance comes success.
“Sobrang sweet, sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam,” said Erram.
“This is a new journey. Sobrang sweet dahil sa mga nangyari a year ago. Who would have thought that I’ll be here? Sobrang blessed and thankful sa Panginoon," he added.