NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo Dies at 58: 'Simply Larger Than Life'

NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo has died at the age of 58.

“NBA Global Ambassador and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo passed away today at the age of 58 from brain cancer,” the NBA said in a statement on X on Monday, September 30. “He was surrounded by his family.”

Commissioner Adam Silver also shared a statement Monday, calling Mutombo — who was known for his signature “finger wag” and was the NBA’s first global ambassador — “simply larger than life.”

“On the court, he was one of the best shot blockers and defenders in NBA history,” Silver continued. “Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others. There was no one more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA’s first global ambassador. He was a humanitarian at his core.”

Retired NBA player Dikembe Mutombo attends the New York Knicks game against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on February 9, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Silver’s statement said Mutombo — who still has the second-most shutouts all-time in league history — “loved what the game of basketball could do to positively impact communities,” namely in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Mutombo was from.

WASHINGTON DC – FEBRUARY 11: Allen Iverson #3 of the Eastern Conference All-Stars attempts a layup against David Robinson #50 of the Western Conference All-Stars during the 2001 NBA All-Star Game February 11, 2001 at the MIC Center in Washington, DC Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images

“I have had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing firsthand how his generosity and compassion lift people up,” Silver said in a statement. “He was always available at NBA events over the years – with his infectious smile, deep booming voice and signature finger wag endearing him to basketball fans of all generations.”

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“Dikembe’s indomitable spirit lives on in those he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life,” Silver continued. “I am one of the many people whose lives were touched by Dikembe’s big heart and I will miss him dearly.”

Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty

Concluding his statement, Silver offered his “deepest condolences” to Mutomb’s wife, Rose, and their three children, as well as Mutomb’s “many friends” and the “global basketball community.”

Mutombo was drafted in 1991 as the fourth overall pick by the Denver Nuggets. Over 18 seasons, during his career he played for the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets.

Mutombo was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2022. After revealing his diagnosis, he received an outpouring of support from other notable retired players.

“Thinking of Dikembe today! F cancer,” wrote George Karl, former NBA player and head coach. “Dikembe Mutombo is the best of us…“Phoenix Suns alum Rex Chapman published. “Praying for a full and speedy recoverydear Dikembe. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,” six-time NBA All-Star Pau Gasol wrote.

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Source: HIS Education