Oklahoma Coach Moser Mourns Sister Jean’s Passing at 106

BREAKING: Oklahoma coach Porter Moser reflects on the profound loss of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who passed away last week at the age of 106. Moser, speaking at SEC Media Day in Birmingham, Alabama, expressed his sorrow, stating, “My heart is sad.” He plans to attend Sister Jean’s funeral mass in Chicago on Thursday.

Sister Jean became a beloved figure nationally during her support of Moser’s Loyola-Chicago team during their remarkable run to the Final Four in 2018. Her infectious positivity and vibrant spirit endeared her to fans and players alike, drawing admiration from celebrities and dignitaries, including President Joe Biden, who once sent her flowers.

Moser emphasized the deep connection he shared with Sister Jean, highlighting her unwavering independence. “She was always running around in her Nike shoes,” he recalled, noting how she lived among students in dorms at the age of 98. Moser shared a poignant moment when he offered her a ride one cold Chicago night, and she insisted on walking back to the dorms alone. “Self-sufficient. Now think about that. She’s 98, by herself, living in the dorm for the students,” Moser said.

Her passion for basketball was unmatched, and those who knew her understood the seriousness of her game-viewing rituals. Moser recounted how Sister Jean would hush anyone who disrupted her during games, illustrating her fierce dedication to the sport. “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.

Beyond her love of basketball, Moser will remember Sister Jean for her warmth and kindness. A fixture at Loyola-Chicago basketball since 1991, Sister Jean was known for her pregame prayers and motivational talks with players. Moser maintained contact with her even after he moved to Oklahoma in 2021, attending her 105th and 106th birthday celebrations.

As he prepares for her funeral, Moser reflects on her extraordinary legacy. “There will never be another person like Sister Jean,” he affirmed. “She meant everything to all of us before she became, in her words, the international star—not just a national star.”

This heartfelt tribute highlights the impact Sister Jean had on those around her, serving as a reminder of the joy and positivity she brought to so many lives.