Dikembe Mutombo dies of cancer: NBA legacy and philanthropy

Dikembe Mutombo, legendary NBA center and Hall of Famer, has passed away at the age of 58 due to brain cancer.

Mutombo, originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, was one of the best defenders and shot-blockers in basketball history.

He played 18 seasons in the NBA, having been selected by the Denver Nuggets in the 1991 Draft, marking the beginning of his professional career.

Throughout his career, Mutombo made eight All-Star appearances and won the Defensive Player of the Year award four times.

The basketball community came together to pay tribute to Dikembe Mutombo

In addition to Denver, he played for the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets.

His iconic «wagging finger» after blocking opponents’ shots became a signature gesture that solidified his status as an NBA defensive legend.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his sadness, highlighting Mutombo’s immense impact on and off the court.

«Dikembe Mutombo was more than a great player; he was an extraordinary human being, committed to helping others,» Silver remarked.

Standing at 7’2″ (2.18 meters), Mutombo averaged 9.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game throughout his remarkable career.

His number 55 jersey was retired by both the Denver Nuggets and the Atlanta Hawks, an honor reserved for true legends.

Dikembe Mutombo became the first NBA Global Ambassador, promoting basketball and philanthropy worldwide, particularly in Africa.

After retiring, he continued to support charitable causes, working to improve the lives of people in his homeland and beyond.

He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest defenders in basketball history.

He is survived by his wife, Rose, and their seven children. The center will be remembered for his generous heart and indomitable spirit.

Dikembe Mutombo leaves behind a legacy that will transcend generations, showing that a great player can also be a great human being.

Mutombo’s impact will continue to inspire those who knew him, both on and off the court, and his memory will endure.