JOHN Paul Erram, the towering center for TNT, recognizes the significance of being selected to play for Gilas Pilipinas. He is determined not to squander this rare opportunity and is fully committed to making the most of it.

Despite not having fully recovered from an ankle injury he sustained during TNT’s PBA On Tour game against NorthPort earlier this June, the 6-foot-8 big man is tirelessly working towards regaining his optimal condition with the assistance of Gilas therapists.

“I’m currently at about 75 percent recovery, and my ankle is still swollen,” Erram revealed in an interview with PlayitRight TV, a YouTube Sports Channel hosted by seasoned sports analyst Quinito Henson. “The good news is that I can participate in complete team practices from start to finish.”

The former Ateneo standout acknowledged the string of injuries that have plagued the Gilas pool, which only amplifies his motivation to recuperate and contribute to the national team’s efforts. Currently in Europe for training and preparations for the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Erram expressed his enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to playing for Gilas.

“I’m extremely excited, and I am fully dedicated to representing Gilas,” he asserted in Filipino. “Coach Chot Reyes has emphasized that whether we make the final lineup or not, the ultimate objective is for each player to improve.”

Erram, who first joined Gilas during the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia, understands that securing a spot on the national team is far from guaranteed. Nevertheless, he pledges to give his utmost effort, regardless of the obstacles.

“If I do earn a place in the lineup, it would be a tremendous achievement for me because it means I’ll have the opportunity to compete against international players and even some from the NBA. This presents a significant chance for me to grow as a player,” he added confidently.