Yeng Guiao insists Erram still part of NLEX until trade is final

NLEX coach Yeng Guiao. INQUIRER PHOTO/TRISTAN TAMAYO

MANILA, Philippines—It’s been nearly a week since news broke of a transaction that is set to deal Poy Erram in a trade involving his team NLEX, TNT, and Blackwater.

But with the deal still going through revisions, Erram still suiting up for the Road Warriors four a couple of tune-up games against San Miguel and Alaska.

NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao is still prepping his team up for the coming PBA Philippine Cup with Erram at the middle, just like what they’ve done the past season.

“For whatever reason, before he’s able to play and no matter how long it takes, we will take advantage until such a time we know the trade is final,” said Guiao Friday after NLEX’ 104-97 win over Phoenix in a tune-up game at Upper Deck Sports Center.

Poy Erram. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Erram played in the Road Warriors’ 103-97 win over San Miguel in the first of their three tune-up games scoring four points but didn’t play in their 104-89 win over Alaska on Wednesday.

Guiao then excused Erram from playing against the Fuel Masters since his center is also part of Gilas Pilipinas who had their final practice at Kerry Sports Manila in Bonifacio Global City on the same day as the Phoenix game.

Gilas also flew to Indonesia on Friday night for the 2021 Fiba Asia Cup Qualifiers.

“Poy’s attitude, my personal attitude is that as long as it’s not final and formal then Poy’s still part of our team,” said Guiao. “We consider him as still part of our team but it would be a big loss and adjustment for us if ever the Poy trade is consummated.”