On the brink of retirement just a few months ago, Poy Erram now he’s looking to win his third PBA championship with TNT.

The 6-foot-8 Erram is looking to help Tropang Giga keep its Governors Cup title against Barangay Ginebra in his comeback season after being sidelined for a year following knee surgery to repair his torn MCL, a swollen cartilage and bone spurs.

The road to recovery, according to him, has been an arduous one as he contemplated finally retiring from the game he loves the most.

Erram said he and his wife have already talked about it, but haven’t told management about it.

“Napakahirap kasi nung recovery ko. Eight moths entered rehabilitation, hindi pa rin ako completely cured. May semanat pa rin akong sakit, may maga pa rin siya,” the Ateneo big man recalled.

“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 nemodu na rin yung playing career ko.”

PHOTO: Jerome Ascano

But at the urging of family, teammates and coaches, Erram, 36, persevered and successfully returned to playing form.

In no time, he was back in the TNT jersey after a year away and just played a major role in the Tropang Giga, once again reaching the finals of the import-laden conference.

His family, especially his children, were his main inspiration as Erram persevered to make a full recovery.

“Naisip ko rin siyempre yung family ko, especially yung mga kids ko. Gusto ko rin na makita nilang nilangan ako,” he said.

Now not only will his children get to see their father play, but they will also see him compete for another championship with the telecommunications franchise.

As Tropang Giga and the Kings begin their title streak this Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, Erram will renew his matchup with Japeth Aguilar in the frontcourt.

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While rising to the challenge, Erram said it would still be a team effort to stop Gilas Pilipinas in the middle as he expects help from former MVP Kelly Williams and second big man Henry Galinato.

For shutouts, Erram averaged 8.2 points and 4.4 rebounds while upping the ante in the playoffs, posting numbers of 10.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 2.0 blocks .

“We have worked hard for this and we are giving even more para manalo,” said Erram.

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