Oklahoma Coach Moser Mourns Sister Jean’s Passing at 106

UPDATE: Oklahoma basketball coach Porter Moser is reflecting on the legacy of his dear friend, Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who passed away last week at the remarkable age of 106. Moser’s heartfelt tribute comes as he prepares to attend Sister Jean’s funeral mass in Chicago after SEC media day on Thursday.

“My heart is sad,” Moser stated, expressing his deep sense of loss. He highlighted the joy and gratitude he felt for having Sister Jean in his life, praising her infectious positivity and energy. “I’ll never meet someone who had such a positive attitude and poured that attitude into other people more than Sister Jean,” he added, emphasizing the impact she had on those around her.

Sister Jean became a national icon during her support of Moser’s Loyola-Chicago team as they made an unforgettable run to the NCAA Final Four in 2018. Her unwavering passion for basketball won her admiration from fans and celebrities alike, including President Joe Biden, who famously sent her flowers.

Moser recalled Sister Jean’s independence, noting how she continued to inspire those around her even into her later years. “She was always running around in her Nike shoes,” Moser reminisced, sharing a touching memory of her living independently in the dorms at the age of 98. “She lived in the dorms by herself,” he said, recalling a night when he encountered her walking back from a late-night outing. Despite his offer for a ride, she refused, highlighting her self-sufficiency.

Those who knew Sister Jean understood her fierce dedication to basketball. Moser recalled a humorous moment when she shushed his children during a game, insisting on enjoying the experience undisturbed. “She loved my kids, but I remember she sat behind my kids at a game and she shushed my kids. They were making noise and she’s like, ‘Sshhh, I’m trying to watch the game,’” he said with a smile.

Moser is particularly grateful for Sister Jean’s warmth, humility, and kindness. Throughout her time with Loyola-Chicago basketball, she not only prayed for the players but also provided them with pregame pep talks and heartfelt encouragement.

Even after Moser’s transition to Oklahoma in 2021, he maintained a close relationship with Sister Jean. He attended both her 105th and 106th birthday celebrations in Chicago, cherishing the moments they shared.

As he prepares for her funeral, Moser reflects on Sister Jean’s unparalleled spirit, stating, “There will never be another person like Sister Jean.” He emphasized her significance, saying, “She meant everything to all of us before she became, in her words, the international star — not just a national star.”

This emotional tribute underscores the profound impact Sister Jean had not only on Moser but on the wider community, reminding everyone of the power of positivity and connection. As tributes pour in from across the nation, her legacy as a beloved figure in college basketball and beyond will undoubtedly endure.

Stay tuned for more updates as the community honors the life of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt.