Oscar Schmidt, basketball and Flamengo idol, dies at 68

Oscar Daniel Bezerra Schmidt died this Friday (17), at the age of 68, in São Paulo. The biggest name in the history of Brazilian basketball, “Mão Santa” also had a remarkable career with Flamengo, where he played between 1999 and 2003.

Born in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, on February 16, 1958, Oscar built a historic career spanning almost three decades as a professional player. Recognized for his scoring ability, he ended his career with over 49 points across clubs and the Brazilian National Team, a mark that for many years placed him as the all-time leading scorer in basketball history.

For the Brazilian National Team, he competed in five editions of the Olympic Games and became the highest scorer in the history of the competition, with 1.093 points. He was also a key player in important achievements, such as the title at the 1987 Pan American Games in Indianapolis.

Throughout his career, he played for clubs in Brazil and Europe, with stints at teams such as Sírio, Juvecaserta, Pavia, Valladolid, and Corinthians, before arriving at Flamengo in the late 1990s.

At Flamengo, he quickly became a reference both on and off the court. With outstanding performances, he won the Rio de Janeiro State Championships in 1999 and 2002. It was with the Sacred Mantle (Flamengo's jersey) that Oscar reached the mark that consolidated him, at the time, as the highest scorer in the history of world basketball.

Oscar also had a memorable moment playing alongside his son, Felipe, in 2002. His farewell to the courts took place the following season, when he ended his career at age 45.

Considered one of the greatest basketball players in history, Oscar Schmidt leaves a legacy that transcends the court and will inspire generations forever. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all his fans during this time of immense sorrow. Rest in peace, legend.