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| TNT's Poy Erram. Photo: Facebook. |
Despite a tough 105-91 loss that put TNT on the brink of elimination, Erram took a moment to acknowledge Ross’ gesture of sportsmanship. The Beermen veteran walked over to the TNT bench after the game to console Erram, who had played through a painful high ankle sprain sustained just days earlier.
“I really appreciated what he did,” said Erram in Filipino during an interview with SPIN.ph. “Even though we’re opponents, we’re both players, and this is our livelihood. That moment meant something.”
Saw this vid on tiktok. I think, kino comfort ni Chris Ross si Poy Erram and then suddenly biglang nag attitude si coach Jolas Lastimosa? Huwag po sana natin pailarin yung init ng ulo kasi lumilipas yan. Yes, this is basketball pero this is just a game. So disappointing. 💔 pic.twitter.com/IQvbZYVqDB
— marshmallow (@jess_bernas) July 20, 2025
Ross' show of concern came as Erram sat alone following the defeat. Though visibly in pain and initially ruled out for Game 4, the TNT big man decided to suit up, knowing the importance of the game in keeping their Grand Slam aspirations alive.
“Fans may clash, but we players understand each other,” Erram added. “It’s not just a game—it’s how we support our families.”
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| Poy Erram (on the floor) aggravated his ankle injury during Game 4. Photo: YouTube. |
While the two players shared mutual respect on the court, TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa appeared less receptive to Ross’ approach, seen waving him off during the postgame scene. Lastimosa later aired frustration over what he perceived as unnecessary antics from San Miguel, singling out Ross.
Erram, who logged over 18 minutes and posted six points, four rebounds, and a block, reiterated that player safety and mutual respect transcend rivalry.
“At the end of the day, we’re just trying to do our jobs,” he said. “No one wants to see anyone get injured. That’s why I really appreciated what Kuya Chris did.”