Sister Jean, nun who became a national icon during Loyola Chicago's Final Four run, dies at 106

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Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the nun who became a national icon at 98 cheering Loyola Chicago to the Final Four in 2018, died Thursday at 106.

The beloved chaplain captivated fans with her courtside presence, pregame prayers, hand-delivered scouting reports and encouraging emails to players after each game.

Born in California, she served Loyola for more than 60 years and continued attending basketball games at 102 despite pandemic restrictions.

Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, a lovable, quick-witted nun who became a national phenomenon for her relentless support of the Loyola Chicago University basketball team during its magical Final Four run in 2018, died Thursday, the school sa