Associated Press

Apr 17, 2026, 04:11 PM ET

SAO PAULO -- Oscar Schmidt, the Basketball Hall of Famer whom his Brazil compatriots know as the "Holy Hand," died on Friday. He was 68.

Schmidt's family said in a statement that he fought 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."

Earlier, Hospital e Maternidade Municipal Santa Ana in the city of Santana de Parnaiba, outside metropolis Sao Paulo, said Schmidt's family requested privacy without elaborating.

Schmidt never played in the NBA but he's beloved in Brazil for committing to the national team for 19 years and becoming one of the most prolific scorers in basketball history.…