UPPER EAST SIDE, Manhattan (PIX11) -- It was not just another basketball game at Ramaz Middle School in the Upper East Side on Sunday afternoon.
It was a packed basketball court with Omer Neutra’s former high school teammates, friends, and family. Omer who grew up loving this game, is turning 23 on Monday. But since last October, his birthday has been anything but a celebration.
“We need to get him back, we can’t let him be there when he is 24,” said Yasmin Magal, Omer’s cousin.
He’s of the 101 hostages who remain in captivity by Hamas, following the October 7 attack last year.
“He was 21 when he was taken captive, it is heartbreaking, it is devasting and it is unfathomable that a 22-year-old is spending his time in the tunnels underneath Gaza for such a long time,” stated Orna Neutra, Omer’s Mom.
Time that only makes the pain grow deeper. They haven’t heard his voice in over a year. Not knowing how he is doing makes it even more excruciating.
“His first birthday in captivity, he might have thought it felt forever until then, and now seeing these events coming back around, it is unimaginable just to think he is still down there and not seeing the sun,” said Daniel Neutra, Omer’s brother.
Omer was born in NYC and grew up on Long Island. Committed to service, he moved to Israel 4 years ago and joined the Israeli Defense Forces.
“We are hoping people around the world and in Israel, especially the prime minister and his government in Israel have looked deep into their soul and understand we have an emergency here and reach an agreement that is so much needed,” said Ronen Neutra, Omer’s dad.
Omer is a hardcore Knicks fan who also wore the number 24 on his basketball uniform with pride as a tribute to the late NBA legend, Kobe Bryant who he saw as a role model. Former teammates from Schechter School of Long Island where he was captain, describe him as a leader both on and off the court.
“I try to imagine he is still hopeful because I remember his fearlessness from growing up and playing basketball,” stated Ari Kantorowitz.
Hopeful is what Omer’s family says they will continue to be as they get ready to light a candle for his birthday on Monday.
“Although he may not know it, it is his birthday. It is every day, survivor, and we pray he is released soon and is able to get his life back.” Said Orna Neutra.
Omer’s family tells PIX11 News that he had planned on returning back home and attending Binghamton University after finishing up his fourth year in the Israeli military.
