Oscar Schmidt, Basketball Hall of Famer from Brazil, dies at 68
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- Oscar Schmidt, Brazilian basketball legend known as the "Holy Hand," died at 68 after battling a brain tumor for 15 years, leaving a lasting legacy in sports both in Brazil and internationally.
- Schmidt never played in the NBA but was a prolific scorer for Brazil's national team over 19 years, famously leading Brazil to victory against the U.S. in the 1987 Pan American Games.
- He holds multiple records, including being the all-time leading scorer in both the Olympics and World Cups, and was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, and Italian Basketball Hall of Fame.
- Schmidt was admired for his dedication, resilience, and leadership, inspiring generations of athletes; Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva praised his impact on the country and sport.
- He is survived by his wife and two children, with his son Filipe honoring him as resting "in the hall of fame of life."
