SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA – Harrison Schaen, a former basketball standout at Mater Dei High School and forward at Princeton University, has died. His former club coach announced the news, saying Schaen had suffered a severe stroke more than a year ago and was finally overcome by organ failure. Schaen was remembered as talented on and off the court and beloved by everyone who knew him. He was also the godson of the late Hugh Hefner.
Harrison Schaen Suffered Severe Stroke Over a Year Before His Death
According to the tribute, Schaen had a severe stroke more than a year ago. His health declined over time, and he ultimately died from failing organs. Strokes can cause lasting damage that affects movement, speech, and other bodily functions.
He had been living at a convalescent home in San Diego, where his former coach visited him recently. A photo from that visit shows Schaen holding a basketball in his wheelchair. His age at the time of his death was not shared.
Mater Dei Star Started Against LeBron James on ESPN2
Schaen started for Mater Dei in its nationally televised ESPN2 game against St. Vincent-St. Mary High School of Akron, Ohio. That team was led by LeBron James, one of the most hyped high school players ever.
The game was part of the 2003 Pangos Dream Classic at UCLA’s Pauley Pavilion. Mater Dei, in Santa Ana, is one of the most successful high school basketball programs in California. Playing in that game was a highlight of his high school career.
Schaen Went On to Play Forward at Princeton University
After high school, Schaen played forward for Princeton University. He also played club basketball with the Belmont Shore team while in high school. Playing at Princeton reflected both his athletic and academic ability. Princeton competes in the Ivy League.
His former club coach described him as a very talented person both on and off the court. The coach said he felt fortunate to have coached him. A photo shows a young Schaen wearing a Belmont Shore No. 23 jersey.
Godson of Hugh Hefner Remembered as Beloved by All
Schaen was the godson of the late Playboy founder Hugh Hefner. Those who knew him say he was loved by everyone he met. His kindness left a lasting impression on coaches and friends. Hefner died in 2017.
His former coach closed his tribute by saying he would miss Schaen dearly and that his memory would be eternal. The basketball community in Southern California is mourning one of its own. Funeral and memorial details were not shared.
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