Poy Erram joins Gilas Pilipinas’ title defense in 2025 SEA Games

CHONBURI, Thailand – Poy Erram is coming out of his Gilas Pilipinas retirement as a last-minute replacement for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games.

The TNT big man completes the 12-man squad that will defend the Philippines’ crown in men’s basketball as he takes the spot of St. Benilde star Allen Liwag, who is out due to an injury according to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).

Erram joins Thirdy Ravena, Ray Parks, Matthew Wright, Robert Bolick, Jamie Malonzo, Dalph Panopio, Von Pessumal, Justin Chua, Abu Tratter, Veejay Pre, and Cedrick Manzano in the team coached by Norman Black. 

“This change has been approved by the organizers and Erram will play against Malaysia tomorrow,” the SBP said in a statement on Saturday, December 13.

Erram, who represented the country in multiple international tournaments, including the 2018 Asian Games and 2022 FIBA Asia Cup, had retired from the national team in the lead-up to the 2023 FIBA World Cup. 

But the 36-year-old answered Gilas’ call again for the SEA Games, although his inclusion was initially thumbed down by local organizers, who have flip-flopped on their eligibility rules after allowing and then eventually banning the entry of naturalized players.

Fortunately, Erram got the green light to play, his length and experience coming in handy for the Philippines’ quest for a 20th men’s basketball gold medal.

Gilas opens its title defense against Malaysia at the Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok on Sunday, December 14. – Rappler.com