Larry Bird, Steve Kerr, others pay tribute to Basketball Hall of Famer Oscar Schmidt after Brazilian icon dies at 68

Oscar Schmidt turned down an opportunity to pursue an NBA career, instead prioritizing his time with the Brazilian national team and still became one of the most prolific scorers in basketball history. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images) Buda Mendes via Getty Images Oscar Schmidt authored a 46-point performance in the final of the 1987 Pan American Games, leading Brazil to a historic victory over the United States in a game that partly precipitated the formation of the “Dream Team. ” Schmidt, a 6-foot-9 forward with a 3-point stroke that was ahead of its time, earned the nickname of the “Holy Hand,” or “Mão Santa” in Portuguese.

The late Kobe Bryant idolized him growing up in Italy, where Schmidt played against Bryant’s father . A Basketball Hall of Famer with international influence despite never playing in the NBA, Schmidt’s legacy is undeniable. It’s being rightfully echoed this weekend after Schmidt died Friday at the age of 68.

Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and Brazilian icon Oscar Schmidt has died at age 68. Schmidt debuted for the Brazilian national team at 19 and made 326 appearances over his career. pic.

twitter. com/GpqY2PoOpI — Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 17, 2026 Schmidt’s family said in a statement that he battled a brain tumor for 15 years “with courage, dignity and resilience … while remaining a role model of determination, generosity and love of life. Oscar leaves a legacy that transcends sport and inspires generations of athletes and admirers in Brazil and worldwide.