Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo Dies at 58 from Brain Cancer
Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo has passed away at the age of 58 after a battle with brain cancer. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a heartfelt statement, saying, “Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life. On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in NBA history. Off the floor, he dedicated his heart and soul to helping others.”
The statement continued, “There was no one more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA’s first Global Ambassador. He was a humanitarian at his core and believed in the positive impact basketball could have on communities, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across Africa.”
Silver noted, “I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and witnessed firsthand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people. He was always present at NBA events, known for his infectious smile, deep booming voice, and signature finger wag that endeared him to fans of every generation. Dikembe’s indomitable spirit lives on in those he inspired and helped throughout his extraordinary life. I am just one of many whose lives were touched by his big heart, and I will miss him dearly.”
Mutombo was inducted into the Hall of Fame following an impressive career that included two NBA Finals appearances and eight All-Star selections. He played for teams such as the 76ers, Nets, Knicks, and Rockets before retiring from professional basketball in 2009.