Miami basketball top four for Sun Belt POY Norchad Omier

The Miami basketball program is one of the final four schools being considered by 6-7 230 pound forward Norchad Omier who was the 2022 Sun Belt Player of the Year. Omier is originally from Nicaragua but played in high school at Miami Prep. Omier averaged 17.9 points per game and 12.2 rebounds for the Red Wolves in 2021-22.

Omier would provide the Miami basketball program with much-needed experience on the frontline. The Hurricanes lost starting center Sam Wardenburg and seldom-used backup Rodney Miller after the 2021-22 season. Backup center-forward Deng Gak who barely played this season will have a decision to make about his future.

Omier is a true low-post player who is efficient offensively. In 2021-22, Omier shot 63.2 percent from the floor and 72.9 from the foul line. Omier had only three three-point attempts last season. Against Illinois and Texas Tech in his only game against major competition in 2021-22, Omier combined for nine points and 12 rebounds.

Omier had six points and five rebounds in 2020-21 against Memphis. It would be a major step up for Omier from the Sun Belt Conference to the ACC. In two seasons at Arkansas State, Omier is averaging 15.6 PPG, 12.2 RPG, shooting 59.4 percent from the floor and 71.6 percent from the foul line.

Miami signed four players in the Class of 2022 who are all 6’6 or taller. That includes 6’10 center Favour Aire and 6’8 power forward A.J. Casey.  The Miami basketball program could change its style of play with the added height on the roster. Head coach Jim Larranaga said he wants to add an experienced guard to the roster.

Wing Jordan Miller announced earlier this month he is returning for his second and final season with the Miami basketball program in 2022-23. Guard Isaiah Wong is evaluating if he will return for his fourth season with Miami or turn professional. Wong is not expected to be selected in the 2022 NBA Draft.