Oscar Schmidt, who was nicknamed 'Mão Santa' (Holy Hand) and stood 2.03 meters tall, died on Friday. He had been fighting a brain tumor with courage, dignity, and resilience, according to his family. The exact cause of death beyond the tumor, the specific hospital where he died, and whether there were other health complications remain unknown.
Schmidt played five consecutive Olympics for Brazil from 1980 to 1996, scoring 1,093 points in the Olympics and averaging over 28 points per match. He debuted for Brazil at age 19 in 1977, as reported by major media. His Olympic scoring record remains a testament to his offensive prowess.
He has inspired generations of athletes in Brazil and the world.
The New Jersey Nets drafted Schmidt in the sixth round in 1984, according to major media. He trained with the Nets but declined a contract because NBA players at the time were not allowed to play for their national teams in the Olympics. At his Hall of Fame induction, Schmidt said he had no regrets about this decision, as reported by major media, stating that he prioritized representing Brazil.
Schmidt played most of his career in the Italian league and was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2010. According to The Independent, he described his shooting ability by saying he did not have a holy hand but a trained hand. This humility contrasted with his on-court achievements.
Oscar leaves a legacy that transcends sport and inspires generations of athletes and admirers in Brazil and worldwide.
Schmidt was Kobe Bryant's childhood idol and influenced other players globally. Larry Bird stated, according to major media, that he always admired Schmidt and considered him a friend. Schmidt was also a keen 3-point shooter in the 1980s when many coaches advised against it, showcasing his innovative style.
Major media reports indicate that Schmidt starred in Brazil's historic victory over the United States in the final of the 1987 Pan American Games. This win was a highlight in his career, contributing to his status as a national hero.
I was the choice (No,) 144. They came to offer me a no-cut contract to play for the New Jersey Nets. I said thank you very much but if I play one game here I will never again play for my national team. Three years later we beat the Americans here in the U.S. Sorry, that was the greatest thing I did in basketball.
Schmidt's family stated that he inspired generations of athletes in Brazil and worldwide, adding that he fought his brain tumor with courage, dignity, and resilience. They said he leaves a legacy that transcends sport and inspires generations of athletes and admirers in Brazil and worldwide.
The Brazil Basketball Confederation stated, according to major media, that Schmidt was the biggest player in Brazilian basketball history and an absolute symbol of sport. They said he bids farewell as an absolute symbol of sport, the holder of a trajectory that redefined the boundaries of what was possible on a court.
I don’t have a holy hand. I have a trained hand.