NBA Legend Dikembe Mutombo Passes Away at 58 After Battle with Brain Cancer

NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo has died at the age of 58 after a battle with brain cancer. The eight-time NBA All-Star, who retired in 2009, made a significant impact during his 18-year career, playing for the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets.

Mutombo began his treatment for a brain tumor in October 2022. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver remembered him as “larger than life,” noting his extraordinary skills as a shot blocker and defensive player, as well as his dedication to humanitarian efforts off the court.

Standing at 7 feet 2 inches tall, the DR Congo-born center was selected by the Nuggets with the fourth overall pick in the 1991 NBA Draft after impressing scouts while studying at Georgetown University. His warm personality and signature finger-wagging celebration made him a beloved figure among fans.

Mutombo reached the NBA Finals twice—first with the 76ers in 2001 and then with the Nets in 2003. He led the league in blocked shots for five consecutive seasons and in blocks per game for an unprecedented three consecutive seasons.

Both the Atlanta Hawks and Denver Nuggets retired his number 55 jersey, and he was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2015. Beyond basketball, Mutombo was a global ambassador for the NBA and was committed to humanitarian work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and across Africa.

Tributes poured in following the announcement of his passing. The Houston Rockets stated, “Today we mourn the loss of a true ambassador of our game,” while owner Tilman Fertitta emphasized his beloved status within the NBA community and the lasting impact of his humanitarian efforts. Daryl Morey, president of basketball operations for the Philadelphia 76ers, remembered Mutombo as “an amazing human being” who made significant contributions both on and off the court.

The Nuggets honored Mutombo’s legacy, stating, “His memory and impact will certainly never be forgotten,” while Hawks principal owner Tony Ressler remarked that Mutombo’s life and legacy will always be remembered in Atlanta.