“Rest in Peace” NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo dead at 58
Dikembe Mutombo, a Basketball Hall of Famer known for his iconic finger wag after blocking shots, has passed away at the age of 58, following a battle with brain cancer. The NBA announced his death on Monday, and Commissioner Adam Silver paid tribute to the legendary player, describing him as “larger than life.”
Mutombo was widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history. Standing at 7 feet 2 inches tall, he dominated the game with his shot-blocking ability and tenacity on defense. He earned recognition not only for his performance on the court but also for his extensive charitable work, particularly in his home country, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and throughout Africa. Mutombo was the NBA’s first global ambassador, a role that allowed him to use his influence to improve the lives of countless people.
“Dikembe’s indomitable spirit continues on in those he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life,” Silver said, adding that he was one of the many touched by Mutombo’s big heart. He extended his condolences to Mutombo’s wife, Rose, their children, and the global basketball community that loved him.
Mutombo’s basketball career began at Georgetown University, where he played a crucial role in replacing the legendary Patrick Ewing. During his time at Georgetown, Mutombo once blocked 12 shots in a single game and earned the Big East Defensive Player of the Year award twice. In 1991, he shared the honor with teammate Alonzo Mourning.
Mutombo entered the NBA in 1991 when he was selected fourth overall by the Denver Nuggets. His defense became even more formidable, and he quickly gained a reputation for mocking opponents with his signature finger wag after blocking their shots. As he once explained, “Man cannot fly in the house of Mutombo,” highlighting his role as a dominant figure in the paint.
One of Mutombo’s most memorable moments came in 1994 when he helped the Nuggets become the first No. 8 seed to defeat a No. 1 seed in the playoffs, upsetting the Seattle SuperSonics. After the win, he famously fell to the floor, clutching the ball and displaying an outpouring of emotion.
Mutombo went on to play for the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets during his NBA career, which spanned until the 2008-09 season. His legacy endures not just through his contributions to basketball, but also through his lasting impact on humanitarian efforts across the globe.
