It seems like TNT is bitten by the injury bug once again as Poy Erram sprained his ankle in Game 2 of the PBA Philippine Cup Finals.
Poy Erram writhed in pain as he clutched his left ankle late in TNT’s eventual 92-98 loss to San Miguel in Game 2 of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Finals Wednesday, July 16.
Erram apparently sprained his right ankle after a rebound play in the heat of action early in the third period at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
It took nearly a minute for the 6-foot-7 beanpole to rise, needing the assistance of his teammates as he headed to the Tropang 5G bench. He did not return to the game.
His exit was a big blow for the Tropang 5G, who were already dealing with Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser falling into foul trouble early.
Before leaving the court, Erram collected six points, two rebounds, three assists and three blocks in only 15 minutes of play.
Poy Erram hurts his ankle at the 9:04 mark of the third period. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
Without another big inside to contain eight-time Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo, TNT eventually fell prey to the Beermen, who also leaned on the sweet-shooting Don Trollano in the fourth period.
After the match, Erram had to be wheeled out of the venue and into his car.
“Namamaga pa,” Erram said, referring to his ankle.
[RELATED STORY: Confident Don Trollano heats up as San Miguel bounces back vs TNT in Game 2 of PBA Finals]
It’s not clear whether he can recover in time for Game 3, where the Tropang 5G are expected to mount a fightback.
The match is set Friday, July 18, at 7:30 p.m. at the same venue.