NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo Dies at 58: 'Simply Larger Than Life'

Mar. 15, 2025

NBA Hall of FamerDikembe Mutombohas died at the age of 58.

Commissioner Adam Silver shared a statement on Monday as well, calling Mutombo — who wasknown for his signature “finger wag” and was the NBA’s first Global Ambassador — “simply larger than life.”

“On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA,” Silver continued. “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.”

Retired NBA Player Dikembe Mutombo attends New York Knicks vs Atlanta Hawks game at State Farm Arena on February 09, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia.Paras Griffin#SPORT/Getty

Paras Griffin#SPORT/Getty

Silver’s statement said that Mutombo — who still holds the second-most all-time number of blocks in league history — “loved what the game of basketball could do to make a positive impact on communities,” namely in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where Mutombo was from.

WASHINGTON D.C. - FEBRUARY 11: Allen Iverson #3 of the Eastern Conference All-Stars attempts a layup against David Robinson #50 of the Western Conference All-Stars during the 2001 NBA All-Star Game held on February 11, 2001 at the MIC Center in Washington, D.C.Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images

“I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people,” Silver shared in the statement. “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.”

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Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty

Concluding his statement, Silver offered his “deepest condolences” to Mutombo’s wife Rose and their three children, as well as Mutombo’s “many friends” and the “global basketball community.”

Mutombo wasdiagnosed with a brain tumorin 2022. After revealing his diagnosis, he received an outpouring of support from other notable retired players.

“Thinking of Dikembe today! F cancer,” wrote George Karl, former NBA player and head coach. “Dikembe Mutombo is the best of us…” Phoenix Suns alumRex Chapmanposted. “Praying for a full and speedy recovery, dear Dikembe. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,” wrote six-time NBA All-StarPau Gasol.

source: people.com