Dikembe Mutombo dies at 58, NBA remembers Hall of Famer's 'indomitable spirit'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo has died at age 58 over prolonged health issues.

The Hall of Famer died due to brain cancer, confirmed the basketball sports body over social media on Monday, September 30.

NBA remembers Dikembe Mutombo's magical career

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said, “Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life. On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others,” reported New York Post.

“Hailing from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mutombo played college basketball at Georgetown and was selected fourth overall in the 1991 NBA Draft by the Nuggets,” he added on X (formerly Twitter).

“There was nobody more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA’s first Global Ambassador. He was a humanitarian at his core. He loved what the game of basketball could do to make a positive impact on communities, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the continent of Africa,” Silver continued.

He further stated, “I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people. He was always accessible 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.”

“Dikembe’s indomitable spirit continues on in those who he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life. I am one of the many people whose lives were touched by Dikembe’s big heart and I will miss him dearly. On behalf of the entire NBA family, I send my deepest condolences to Dikembe’s wife, Rose, and their children; his many friends; and the global basketball community which he truly loved and which loved him back,” Silver concluded.

Mutombo’s successful career lasted from 1991 to 2009 and featured eight All-Star appearances and four Defensive Player of the Year awards.

He went on to represent the Hawks, Sixers, Nets, Knicks and Rockets.

Internet says Dikembe Mutombo's legacy will live forever

Fans paid emotional tribute to the NBA Hall of Famer for his successful career. Many remembered the unique talent Dikembe Mutombo was, and prayed for his family.

A user expressed on X, "Extremely sad stuff. I’ll never forget the great finger wag and all the commercials. Truly a goat 🙏🏼."

"Oh no! I had no idea he was even suffering from brain cancer. Another friendly reminder to be kind to everyone. You never know what is going on in their life. RIP Dikembe! 💔," said another. 

Someone else expressed, "Damn I used to see him all the time at Lifetime a few years aro.... he seemed so healthy. 😔 Prayers to his family."

"His legacy will continue to inspire many. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. 🕊️🏀."

"RIP Dikembe Mutombo, a basketball legend and humanitarian. Condolences to his family and loved ones."

"RIP Legend Dikembe mutombo. A humble human being a wonderful athlete," another said.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.