We have sad news out of the basketball world. Basketball Hall of Famer has passed away at the age of 58 due to brain cancer.
NBA insider Shams Charania of The Athletic reported the news on social media.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver released a statement regarding the passing of Mutombo.
“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others.
“There was nobody more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA‘s first Global Ambassador. He was a humanitarian at his core. He loved what the game of basketball could do to make a positive impact on communities, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the continent of Africa. I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people. He was always accessible at NBA events over the years – with his infectious smile, deep booming voice and signature finger wag that endeared him to basketball fans of every generation.”
“Dikembe’s indomitable spirit continues on in those who he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life. I am one of many people whose lives were touched by Dikembe’s big heart and I will miss him dearly.”
NBA Global Ambassador and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo passed away today at the age of 58 from brain cancer. He was surrounded by his family.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement. pic.twitter.com/fkFPaiMVD3
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) September 30, 2024
Mutombo was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015. During his NBA career, he made eight All-Star teams, made two NBA Finals appearances, and was a steady presence for whatever team he played for.
He also won the Defensive Player of the Year award four times.
SAITAMA, JAPAN – OCTOBER 02: Former NBA Player, Dikembe Mutombo attends the Washington Wizards v Golden State Warriors – NBA Japan Games at Saitama Super Arena on October 02, 2022 in Saitama, Japan. Mutombo passed away at the age of 58.
Photo by Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images
Former NBA coach Don Nelson praised Mutombo back in 1994 for what he was able to do on the basketball court.
“There’s nobody else in our league who has the intimidating presence he has in the hole,” said Golden State Warriors coach Don Nelson, describing Mr. Mutombo’s impact around the basket in a 1994 interview with Sports Illustrated. “He’s one of a kind.”
Mutombo was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the No. 4 pick in the 1991 NBA Draft. He played in Denver for a few years before joining the Atlanta Hawks. Mutombo has his jersey retired by both the Nuggets and the Hawks.
He was also a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets. Throughout his 18-year NBA career, Mutombo averaged 9.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game.
He will be greatly missed and the entire NewsweekSports family extends our deepest condolences to his family and friends during this tough time.
