Shot-blocking great Dikembe Mutombo dies at 58, NBA says
Basketball legend Dikembe Mutombo has passed away at age 58 due to brain cancer, as confirmed by the NBA on Monday.
Mutombo, beloved by fans for his iconic finger-wag celebration, was a dominant force on the court. Standing at seven feet two inches, the Congolese center earned eight NBA All-Star selections and was recognized four times as the league’s Defensive Player of the Year, making him one of the most formidable shot-blockers in NBA history.
“Dikembe Mutombo was truly larger than life,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. “On the court, he was one of the greatest defensive players the NBA has ever seen. Off the court, he dedicated his life to helping others.”
Mutombo played 18 seasons in the NBA with six different teams, averaging 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game and reaching the NBA Finals twice. His charisma and community focus made him a favorite with fans, both in the U.S. and around the world.
After retiring in 2009, he became the NBA’s first global ambassador, working to grow the sport across Africa. Mutombo was especially committed to using basketball to make a positive difference in his native Democratic Republic of Congo and throughout the continent.
“He loved seeing how basketball could uplift communities, especially in Africa,” Silver said, highlighting Mutombo’s lasting impact. “With his booming voice, unforgettable smile, and signature finger wag, Dikembe Mutombo will be remembered by basketball fans everywhere.”
