Ervin will be battling emotions against Crocs

The 180cm guard was hit hard during the week when he learned from family members in America that his cousin Kevin Ervin had passed away after battling illness.

The pair had been close since childhood and were more like brothers.

‘‘He was only 40 years old. He followed my career and always supported me in what I did,’’ Ervin said.

‘‘It’s tough when you’re here by yourself and you get some bad news from back home. I cried and let all my frustrations and emotions out. It was just time to let everything out, just try to let it free.’’

Wollongong have suffered a club record 11 straight losses, including last Sunday’s 107-75 drubbing from Townsville.

They are effectively out of finals contention, but at least they have a chance for some payback on the Crocodiles.

Ervin vowed to play the remainder of the season in memory of his cousin.

‘‘Every game from here on out is dedicated to him, because he’d want nothing but the best for me,’’ the 31-year-old New Yorker said.

‘‘If he knew we were struggling like this, he would definitely have some words, so I can’t go on the court with my head down, thinking about it and feeling sorry for what’s going on. It’s a tough situation but I can turn those emotions into positive energy.’’

Ervin hasn’t had the greatest week, sitting out Wednesday’s practice session with what felt like tonsilitis.

‘‘I had some swelling in my throat with some soreness and redness. They just tried to catch anything before it got worse,’’ the 2011 NBL MVP said.

‘‘I’ve been hit with a lot at one time and it’s not easy, but I’m built for it. You just have to keep going and get over the hump.’’