Basketball legend Dikembe Mutombo has tragically died at the age of 58 after battling brain cancer.
Mutombo had a legendary career in the NBA where he played for the Nuggets, Hawks, 76ers, Nets, Knicks and Rockets before retiring in 2009.
He became an eight-time NBA All-Star and stood a whopping 7ft2.
But in October 2022, Mutombo revealed that he was undergoing treatment for a brain tumour.
Dikembe Mutombo has tragically passed away at the age of 58
PA
A further statement from the NBA asked for privacy for himself and his family as he battled the malignant disease.
But his death was announced on September 30 with NBA commissioner Adam Silver writing in a statement: “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 was renowned for his finger-wagging at opponents after pulling out a block and denying them a scoring opportunity.
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Dikembe Mutombo became an NBA All-Star eight times
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And tributes have poured in for the basketball star, including from NFL icon and Burnley co-owner JJ Watt who said: “An absolute legend on and off the court. Truly grateful for the friendship and memories. Rest in Peace Dikembe.”
ESPN presenter Stephen A. Smith said: “No matter what you know about him as a basketball player, he was an even better human being. One of the most beautiful, beautiful human beings I’ve ever known.”
And NBA legend Pau Gasol put: “I was very sad to hear about Dikembe Mutombo’s passing.
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Dikembe Mutombo was known for his larger-than-life personality
PA
“Dikembe was not only great on the court, but a force for good off it, admired and loved by those who got to know him.
“His smile, his values and his dedication to basketball, as well as to helping others, will never be forgotten.
“My thoughts are with his family and his loved ones at this very difficult time. May he rest in peace.”
The NBA center is survived by his wife Rose and three children Carrie, JJ and Ryan.