BREAKING: Oklahoma coach Porter Moser expressed profound sadness over the passing of his dear friend, Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who died last week at the age of 106. Moser’s heartfelt tribute comes as he prepares to attend her funeral mass in Chicago following the SEC Media Day on Thursday.
“My heart is sad,” Moser said, reflecting on his bond with Sister Jean, a national icon known for her vibrant spirit and unwavering support of the Loyola-Chicago basketball team. Moser, who coached Loyola-Chicago during their remarkable NCAA tournament run to the Final Four in 2018, highlighted her infectious positivity. “I vibe with energetic, positive people. I’ll never meet someone who had such a positive attitude and poured that attitude into other people more than Sister Jean,” he shared.
Sister Jean became a beloved figure not just in basketball but in the hearts of many, including President Joe Biden, who once sent her flowers. Her independent spirit shone brightly, even as she used a wheelchair during public appearances. Moser fondly recalled moments of Sister Jean zipping around the Loyola-Chicago campus in her signature Nike sneakers, each shoe emblazoned with her name—’Sister’ on one, ‘Jean’ on the other.
Even at the age of 98, Sister Jean lived in the dorms with students, epitomizing independence and resilience. Moser recounted a chilly night when he offered her a ride back to her dorm, only to have her decline, saying, “No, no. This is great for me.”
Known for her fierce love of basketball, Sister Jean commanded respect during games, even shushing Moser’s children when they interrupted her viewing. “I remember her being such a basketball fan,” Moser said, emphasizing her devotion to the sport and her players.
Beyond the court, Sister Jean was a source of warmth, humility, and kindness. As a chaplain since 1991, she prayed for both the Ramblers and their opponents, providing pregame pep talks that motivated players.
Moser maintained a close relationship with Sister Jean after his move to Oklahoma in 2021. He celebrated her milestones, attending her 105th and 106th birthday parties in Chicago, further solidifying their bond.
As he prepares to honor Sister Jean at her funeral, Moser reflects on her extraordinary impact. “She meant everything to all of us before she became, in her words, the international star—not just a national star,” he stated.
Moser’s tribute underscores not only the loss of a beloved figure but also the legacy of positivity and resilience that Sister Jean embodied. As the basketball community mourns her passing, her spirit will continue to inspire future generations.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
