NEW YORK: The NBA announced on September 30 that Dikembe Mutombo, the celebrated Hall of Famer, has died at 58 from brain cancer.
Mutombo was a towering center at seven feet two inches, known for his extraordinary shot-blocking skills. He was selected as an NBA All-Star eight times and claimed the title of defensive player of the year four times.
“Dikembe Mutombo was a larger-than-life character. He was one of the finest shot-blockers and defensive players the NBA has ever seen. Off the court, he dedicated himself to philanthropy,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in an official statement.
His lively personality, highlighted by his famous finger-wagging gesture, made him a fan favorite throughout his 18-year career with six teams, during which he averaged 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. He also competed in the NBA Finals twice.
After retiring in 2009, Mutombo took on the role of the NBA’s first global ambassador, promoting basketball across Africa.
“He had a deep love for basketball’s ability to effect positive change in communities, particularly in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the African continent,” said Silver.
