Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo passed away Monday morning from brain cancer at the age of 58, as confirmed by the NBA via Twitter.
Mutombo, known for his towering presence on the court and his exceptional shot-blocking ability, enjoyed a legendary career spanning 18 seasons in the NBA.
He played for several teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Houston Rockets, becoming an eight-time All-Star and four-time Defensive Player of the Year.
Beyond his accomplishments in basketball, Mutombo was also revered for his humanitarian work, particularly in his native Democratic Republic of Congo, where he dedicated significant resources to improving healthcare and education.
His legacy goes beyond basketball, inspiring many with his charity work and vibrant personality. The basketball community mourns a true legend, with tributes from players, coaches, and fans honoring his contributions both on and off the court.