Dikembe Mutombo: NBA legend dies of brain cancer at the age of 58

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

The eight-time NBA All-Star, who retired in 2009, played 18 years in the league for the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets.

Mutombo began treatment for a brain tumor in October 2022.

“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.

“On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in NBA history. Even off the field, he put his heart and soul into helping others.”

The 7-foot-2 center Mutombo, born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was discovered while studying at Georgetown University and selected by the Nuggets with the fourth overall pick in the 1991 NBA Draft.

His warm personality and signature finger-wagging style made him a fan favorite.

He reached the NBA Finals twice, first for the 76ers in 2001 and then two years later for the Nets (now the Brooklyn Nets).

Known for his defensive play, he led the NBA in blocked shots for five straight seasons and set a record in blocks per game for three straight seasons.

After his retirement, both the Hawks and Nuggets retired his number 55 jersey, and he was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2015.

Mutombo was a global ambassador for the NBA and did humanitarian work in his home country.

“He was passionate about the positive impact the game of basketball can have on communities, particularly in his homeland, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and across the African continent,” Silver added.

“He was always approachable at NBA events over the years with his infectious smile, deep, booming voice and signature finger wag that endeared him to basketball fans of every generation.”