The Georgetown center and Hall of Famer passed away after a battle with cancer
Georgetown Hoyas legend Dikembe Mutombo has passed. The hall-of-fame center was a fan-favorite because of his tenacity on the floor, his philanthropy around the globe, and his genuineness, generosity, and great humor. Dikembe truly bled blue and gray, and was a terrific example of a Forever Hoya. He will be missed.
Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo has passed away at 58 years old due to brain cancer. pic.twitter.com/taDWSFeCQE
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 30, 2024
The NBA and Commissioner Adam Silver issued a press release saying:
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.
Dikembe’s indomitable spirit continues on in those who he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life. I am one of the many people whose lives were touched by Dikembe’s big heart and I will miss him dearly. On behalf of the entire NBA family, I send my deepest condolences to Dikembe’s wife, Rose, and their children; his many friends; and the global basketball community which he truly loved and which loved him back.
NBA Global Ambassador and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo passed away today at the age of 58 from brain cancer. He was surrounded by his family.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement. pic.twitter.com/fkFPaiMVD3
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) September 30, 2024
Dikembe has been out of the limelight since 2022 when Patrick Ewing publicly asked for prayers for the Mutombo family. Alonzo Mourning visited Dikembe while he was on the mend. Things were pretty quiet since then, out of respect to the Mutombo family.
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Our condolences to the Mutombo family, as well as Dikembe’s NBA family and the entire Georgetown community.