INDIANAPOLIS — Omar Cooper Jr., a standout receiver for the Indiana Hoosiers, heads into the Peach Bowl with a remarkable season behind him, solidifying his place in IU history. The Indianapolis native and Lawrence North graduate has garnered significant attention for his exceptional performances on the field, much to the joy of his family.
“It’s an amazing feeling. I can’t really put it in words of just the grandness of it. I don’t think everything has hit me yet,” reflected Cooper’s mother, Vnemina, as their family shares this journey together.
Cooper has achieved a remarkable tally of 849 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns this season, playing a pivotal role in the team’s aspirations for a shot at the National Championship game. His father, Omar Cooper Sr., expressed his anticipation for the upcoming Peach Bowl, saying, “It’s been excitement every game, every step of the way. We just hope he gets out there and is himself. You don’t have to be Superman. Just who you are is enough.”
The entire Cooper family plans to attend the game in Atlanta, eagerly hoping for a Hoosiers victory. Regardless of the outcome, the season has been filled with pride and emotion for them. “It just makes you smile. Makes my heart just so warm,” Vnemina shared, acknowledging her son’s remarkable accomplishments.
Omar’s younger sister, Tia, expressed her pride, stating, “Just seeing everything he’s accomplished just makes me proud. I’m happy he gets to shine and be him, and he doesn’t let fame change him.”
Cooper’s influence has extended beyond the field, with his jersey becoming increasingly popular among Hoosier fans following his game-winning touchdown at Penn State. His mother noted, “Probably the most surreal part is seeing my baby’s name on somebody in jersey form. People are starting to really love what he does on the football field and show their appreciation by buying his jersey. Every time we see one, I take a picture…it’s just an amazing experience.”
Before achieving success with the Hoosiers, Cooper made a name for himself as a two-time Indiana all-state selection with the Lawrence North Wildcats, where he built a strong foundation for his current achievements. Cooper Sr. remarked on his son’s talent, recalling moments of pure awe during games.
As the Hoosiers stand just one win away from a chance at the National Championship, Cooper Sr. reflected on the significance of this journey, humorously declaring, “If they win the national championship, I told them, ‘When I come to work, don’t nobody talk to me for like three days because I’m going to feel like I’m right about everything.’”
With their aspirations high and just two wins needed to make their championship dreams a reality, the Cooper family is filled with hope and excitement for what lies ahead.