Champions for Life

In the modern landscape of college athletics, it’s easy for schools to get lost in transactions, focusing exclusively on the ends while ignoring the means. 

Baylor Athletics’ mission in Preparing Champions for Life and the Culture of J.O.Y. (Jesus, Others and then Yourself) established by Baylor men’s basketball under Head Coach Scott Drew has kept elite character and spiritual development at the heart of the program.

In the wake of a season-ending loss to Duke, Baylor basketball’s VJ Edgecombe and Norchad Omier sat in the postgame press conference. The future pros reflected on Baylor’s impact beyond the hardwood — how their time in Waco shaped them as men and prepared them for what’s next.

“Basketball has changed my life. Coming to Baylor is probably one of the best things I’ve ever done,” Omier said. “The way the coaches care about you, my teammates — they make you grow spiritually, mentally, physically.”

A 2024 transfer portal addition from Miami, Omier is a walking double-double, likely to follow in the footsteps of previous Baylor bigs who have grinded out spots on NBA rosters.

Edgecombe, who at press time is projected as a lottery pick in the NBA Draft, echoed those sentiments. 

“It’s the best place. You’re going to grow spiritually here. That’s why I went to Baylor; to grow as a man. I want to be the best person I can be and stay connected to God.”

Drew praised the character of his players. 

“A lot of times [staff at] tournaments will say, ‘We’re cheering for you because your guys are so professional and kind and nice,’” Drew said. “Life is short. I’m not going to work with people I don’t want to be around. We’re blessed to have great young men.”

Baylor basketball’s commitment to high-character development has a strong track record of results, with alumni going on to build careers, families and legacies, all built on the foundation of faith and belonging that Drew and his staff have maintained throughout the volatilities of the moment. 

“Anybody in the recruiting class, anybody that wants to come to Baylor, I’m going to tell them, ‘Come to Baylor if you want to grow as a person,’” Omier said. “Everybody wants to grow as a basketball player. Baylor is the right place for both.”

In his last moments in a Baylor uniform before stepping off the podium, Omier said it best: “God is good.”