NBA Legend Dikembe Mutombo Dies at 58
Dikembe Mutombo, a Basketball Hall of Famer and one of the best defensive players in NBA history, has passed away at the age of 58. The news of his death was announced by the NBA on Monday.
Mutombo’s family had revealed two years ago that he was undergoing treatment for a brain tumor in Atlanta. The NBA said that he died surrounded by his family.
Toronto Raptors President Masai Ujiri, who worked with Mutombo during his time with the Denver Nuggets, paid tribute to the legendary center, saying, “It’s really hard to believe. It’s hard for us to be without that guy. You have no idea what Dikembe Mutombo meant to me…. That guy, he made us who we are. That guy is a giant, an incredible person.”
Mutombo, who last played in the NBA during the 2008-09 season, dedicated his post-retirement life to charitable and humanitarian causes. He spoke nine languages and founded the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation in 1997, focusing on improving health, education, and quality of life for the people in the Congo.
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James also shared his thoughts on Mutombo, who was known for his intense defense and ability to disrupt opponents’ shots. “My fondest memory of Dikembe Mutombo? He fractured my face on my birthday in Cleveland with an elbow,” James said, laughing. “I never even got an opportunity to tell him about that. But yeah. I don’t remember how old … I was in Cleveland, my first stint, and I think I was turning 22 maybe?”
James’ experience was not unique, as many players who faced Mutombo on the court know that his defense was both intimidating and effective. His memory of the play will surely be one that stands out for James, and it’s a testament to Mutombo’s lasting impact on the game.
With his passing, the basketball world has lost a giant, both on and off the court.
