1997 Saturn SC2 Totally loose shifter

I had the exact same problem with my 95 sc2.

Most likely, the plastic connector has given way in which case it needs to be replaced. Easiest way to check is by pulling up and removing the cupholders and doing a visual. That will allow you to confirm the above.
If this is the case then the resolve is as follows.
Remove the center console (2 phillips screws upfront one on each side of the console behind the removeable pannels and 2 at the back of the console inside the console itself under a small rectangle platic piece, then you will be able to move the console out of the way to make repairs.
I will tell you I found it hard to find that little plastic piece, the only place here in south florida that carrys it is Napa auto parts and its about 20 dollars.
Basically you take the plastic piece and use it to attach the base of the shifter to the two cables in front of it. Requires a lot of pressure of which I found a vise grip works well.

Hope this helps

I finally got to get into the console and found that it was the plastic clip at the base of the shifter that holds the cable to the ball pin on the shifter. According to the dealership that is handling Saturn repairs now in our area, you have to by the whole cable assembly. I have called around to local auto parts and they said they can not get any hardware pieces. Any ideas?

My problem is exactly what you have described. Do you happen to have a part number or manufacturer name. According to my local parts stores they can not get any hardware pieces for Saturn transmissions or linkages.

Thinks for the insight.