Dikembe Mutombo Dead at 58 from Brain Cancer

Hall of Fame Center Dikembe Mutombo passed away this morning after a battle with brain cancer. He died surrounded by family in Atlanta, Georgia. Per the NBA, it was announced only two years ago that Mutombo had a brain tumor and that he would be receiving treatment for it.

Basketball Hall of Famer and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo has died from brain cancer at age 58. pic.twitter.com/SoDANXt0JW

— ESPN (@espn) September 30, 2024

Mutombo earned respect in the NBA community, not only as a player but also as a person. After his playing career, he became heavily involved in humanitarian work and charities.

Dikembe Mutombo Will Be remembered Fondly

In a statement released on the NBA’s X account, 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…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. 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.”

Mutombo played for six teams over his 18-year career: the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets. He retired after the 2008-2009 season and the Hall of Fame inducted him in 2015.

When it was all said and done, Dikembe Mutombo achieved remarkable success. He became a 4x Defensive Player of the Year, a 3x All-Defensive First Team member, and an 8x All-Star. Additionally, he ranks second all-time in blocks with 3,289.

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Dikembe Mutombo made the world a better place, and many will dearly miss him.

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