Norchad Omier chasing NBA dream with expected Cavs opportunity

Nicaraguan forward Norchad Omier spent the summer looking really good. Now, he is expected to get a similar chance in training camp with the Cavaliers.

Omier, 24, impressed at Summer League and is on track to join Cleveland on an Exhibit 10 deal. Nothing is guaranteed, but it’s another step in what has already been an improbable journey.

“A few years ago, I never would’ve imagined I’d be here,” Omier told FIBA Basketball. “It’s been a long journey. I always think back to when I was a kid, playing in my neighborhood back home.”

That home is Nicaragua, where Omier has become a national sports figure. He played at Arkansas State, Miami and Baylor, averaging 15.3 points and 10.9 rebounds on 57 percent shooting for his college career.

He was named to the All-FIBA AmeriCup second team earlier this week, with this year’s tournament being hosted in Nicaragua. Omier called it a proud moment for his country.

Omier often points to God, his parents and the people who believed in him as the reasons he is here.

“Some people doubted me, but my family never did,” he said. “Dream big, work hard, trust in God, and amazing things can happen.”

For now, the dream continues with a likely shot in Cavaliers camp. What happens after that is mostly up to him.

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