Gilas Pilipinas Men have made a last-minute change to their lineup for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has officially replaced NCAA Most Valuable Player Allen Liwag with TNT veteran center Poy Erram to bolster the national team’s frontline.
Standing at 6-foot-7, Erram will make his Gilas return for the first time since the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Asian Qualifiers.
The 36-year-old Ateneo de Manila University product has been training with the national squad during its buildup to the biennial meet, while also balancing duties with TNT.
Erram is also familiar with head coach Norman Black’s system, having played under him during their time at Ateneo.
He joins fellow Blue Eagles Von Pessumal, Justin Chua, and Thirdy Ravena in the roster.
Completing the squad are Bobby Ray Parks Jr., Jamie Malonzo, Matthew Wright, Robert Bolick, Abu Tratter, Dalph Panopio, Veejay Pre, and Cedrick Manzano.
Gilas Men will open their campaign against Malaysia on Sunday before facing Vietnam on Monday.
