Dikembe Mutombo, NBA Star, Passes Away at 58
On September 30, the NBA revealed that Dikembe Mutombo, a renowned Hall of Famer, has passed away at the age of 58 due to brain cancer.
NEW YORK: On September 30, the NBA revealed that Dikembe Mutombo, a renowned Hall of Famer, has passed away at the age of 58 due to brain cancer.
The Congolese center, standing tall at seven feet two inches, was admired for his exceptional shot-blocking skills and was selected as an NBA All-Star eight times. He earned the title of defensive player of the year four times.
“Dikembe Mutombo was truly a giant in every sense. He excelled as one of the greatest defensive players and shot-blockers in NBA history. Beyond the court, he was dedicated to helping those in need,” stated NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
Known for his charming personality and signature finger-wagging celebration, Mutombo played 18 seasons with six teams, averaging 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. He reached the NBA Finals twice during his career.
Upon retiring in 2009, he became the NBA’s first global ambassador, working tirelessly to spread the sport throughout Africa.
“He believed deeply in basketball’s capacity to create positive change in communities, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the African continent,” Silver remarked.
