CBF mourns the death of Oscar Schmidt

CBF mourns the death of Oscar Schmidt

CBF mourns the death of Oscar Schmidt, a legend of Brazilian and world basketball, which occurred this Friday (17), at the age of 68. Oscar was admitted to the Santa Ana Municipal Hospital and Maternity (HMSA) in Santana de Parnaíba, São Paulo, after feeling unwell during the day. The former player received medical care but did not survive.

Oscar Daniel Bezerra Schmidt was born in Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte, on February 16, 1958. His first club was Cristal, from Brasília. He later played for traditional Brazilian basketball teams such as Sírio, Palmeiras, Mackenzie, Corinthians, and Flamengo, as well as clubs in Italy, such as Juvecaserta, and in Spain, such as Fórum Valladolid.

“Holy Hand,” as he became known, was selected by the New Jersey Nets to play in the NBA in 1984, but turned down the offer because, at the time, athletes linked to the North American league were not allowed to represent their national teams.

For Brazil, Oscar led the iconic 1987 Pan American title, when Brazil defeated the United States 120–115 in the final on American soil. Playing for the Brazilian National Basketball Team, Oscar also won a bronze medal at the 1987 World Championship and three gold medals at the South American Championships in 1977, 1983, and 1985, in addition to several podium finishes in international tournaments.

The player was considered the highest scorer in world basketball, with 49,973 points, until 2024, when he was surpassed by LeBron James. On August 20, 2010, Oscar was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame. He is also in the Basketball Halls of Fame of the United States and Italy.

CBF president Samir Xaud mourned the early passing of this icon of Brazilian sport and expressed solidarity with Oscar’s family and friends.

“I received with deep sorrow the news of the death of Oscar Schmidt, one of the greatest athletes Brazil has ever had. Oscar, our Holy Hand, was synonymous with patriotism, grit, and talent. He was a tireless competitor who honored Brazil’s jersey like few others. His dedication to basketball and to the country inspired generations and helped build the history of our national pride. Today, Brazil says goodbye to a giant, but his legacy remains alive and his example will stay with us forever,” said Xaud.

Oscar, who was the brother of TV host Tadeu Schmidt, is survived by his wife, Maria Cristina Schmidt, and two children, Filipe and Stephanie. In this moment of pain and sadness, CBF stands with his family.