Official NBA announcements or press releases

NBA Legend Dikembe Mutombo Passes Away at 58 from Brain Cancer

Sep 30, 2024, 03:05 PM

Dikembe Mutombo, an NBA Hall of Famer and one of the greatest defensive players in the history of the sport, has passed away at the age of 58 due to brain cancer. Known for his iconic finger wag and exceptional shot-blocking abilities, Mutombo's career spanned 19 years, during which he achieved numerous accolades, including four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards, eight All-Star selections, and three All-NBA team honors. He scored 11,729 points, grabbed 12,359 rebounds, and blocked 3,289 shots. Beyond his on-court achievements, Mutombo was celebrated for his humanitarian efforts, particularly in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo, where he built a hospital in Kinshasa. His impact extended globally, with many remembering him as a kind and generous individual who used his platform to better the lives of others. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver described Mutombo as 'larger than life,' both on and off the court. Mutombo's legacy is also marked by his memorable moments, such as leading the Denver Nuggets to a historic playoff upset against the Seattle SuperSonics in 1994. He is survived by his wife, Rose, and their children. Tributes have poured in from across the basketball community, highlighting his contributions to the sport and his philanthropic endeavors.