Cleveland’s Rising Star: Nae’Qwan Tomlin
CLEVELAND – Six years ago, NBA agent Torrell Harris met a young basketball talent from Rucker Park, Nae’Qwan Tomlin, offering him guidance at Sylvia’s Restaurant in Harlem. As the father of Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris, he has encountered many aspiring basketball players, making it hard to recall each meeting.
On Monday, Harris discovered that the teen he met over soul food is now on the Cleveland Cavaliers, following a non-traditional route to the NBA. “I had to reach out to Steve Barnett, co-founder of Rucker Park, to confirm if Nae’Qwan was in the NBA. It’s a blessing,” Harris shared in a phone interview. “Steve believed in him back then, and I’m just glad I could help steer him in the right direction.”
At 25 years old, Tomlin is thriving as a two-way forward with averages of 6.2 points and 3.1 assists in 36 games this season. The Cavaliers are expected to elevate him to a standard contract soon, as he prepares to take on LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers tonight.
Tomlin’s inspiring story began in Brooklyn, New York, where he moved to Harlem at age 10. Growing fond of basketball through his mother’s interest, he attended Urban Assembly High School but struggled academically and missed playing on the boys’ team. Surprisingly, he learned of his graduating status just on the day of graduation. Despite a rocky start, he believes everything happens for a reason.
With encouragement from Harris and Barnett, Tomlin was sent to a prep school in San Antonio run by Hall of Famer George Gervin, where he honed his skills and matured. Tomlin joined Monroe Community College’s basketball team in 2019, where he excelled, culminating in successful seasons at Chipola College, leading to a scholarship at Kansas State.
After being dismissed from Kansas State due to conduct issues, he transferred midseason to the University of Memphis, where he thrived under Coach Penny Hardaway. Following the 2024 NBA draft, where he went undrafted, he joined the Cavaliers’ summer league team and the G League. Despite initial challenges, he improved significantly, culminating in his NBA debut during the 2025 season.
Tomlin is poised to sign a standard contract with the Cavaliers after the Feb. 5 trade deadline. Reflecting on his journey from street basketball to the professional leagues, he remains determined to maximize his potential. “I aim to make the most of every opportunity,” he stated. “While I’ve made mistakes, each is a lesson learned, pushing me closer to my goals.”
