NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo has passed away at the age of 58 after a battle with brain cancer.
Dikembe Mutombo, an eight-time NBA All-Star who retired in 2009, played for 18 seasons with teams including the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets. He began treatment for a brain tumor in October 2022.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver remarked, “Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” highlighting his prowess as one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in NBA history, as well as his dedication to helping others off the court.
Standing 7 feet 2 inches tall, Mutombo was discovered while studying at Georgetown University and was selected fourth overall by the Nuggets in the 1991 NBA Draft. His charismatic personality and signature finger-wagging celebration made him a fan favorite.
Mutombo reached the NBA Finals twice: first with the 76ers in 2001 and then with the Nets in 2003. Known for his defensive skills, he led the league in blocked shots for five consecutive seasons and holds the record for blocks per game for three straight seasons.
Both the Hawks and Nuggets honored him by retiring his number 55 jersey, and he was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2015. Beyond basketball, Mutombo served as a global ambassador for the NBA and engaged in humanitarian efforts in his home country.
“He cherished how basketball could positively impact communities, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and throughout Africa,” added Silver. “His infectious smile and deep voice endeared him to fans across generations.”
Tributes poured in from various teams, including the Houston Rockets, where he spent his final five years. Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta expressed that Mutombo’s humanitarian efforts left a lasting mark on the league. Daryl Morey of the Philadelphia 76ers also shared personal memories of Mutombo’s influence both on and off the court.
The Nuggets stated that Mutombo’s legacy would never be forgotten, while Hawks owner Tony Ressler noted that his life and contributions would always be remembered in Atlanta.
