Dikembe Mutombo, the towering Basketball Hall of Famer known for his formidable defense and immense humanitarian efforts, passed away on Monday from brain cancer at the age of 58.
Michael Jordan expressed his deep sorrow, highlighting Mutombo’s transformative impact on both basketball and global humanitarianism. “I am deeply saddened to hear about Dikembe’s passing. He was a defensive force on the court who changed the way the game of basketball is played. But more importantly, Dikembe truly changed the world and improved countless lives through his humanitarian work in Africa. I will especially miss hearing his booming laugh. My condolences to his wife, Rose, his children, and his family,” Jordan said.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who traveled with Mutombo, spoke about the personal and professional impact Mutombo had on those around him. “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,” Silver remarked.
Former Nuggets coach Dan Issel reflected on Mutombo’s legacy, both on and off the court. “As a basketball player, he might have been the best defensive player to ever play the NBA. I never saw (Bill) Russell playing, but he’d have to be awfully good to be as good as Dikembe. You’re very fortunate as a coach when your best player is the one that works the hardest and keeps all the rules, which is what Dikembe did. But his legacy might be even bigger with the work that he did off of the court,” Issel noted.
Pau Gasol reminisced about Mutombo’s enduring influence. “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,” Gasol shared.
Cleveland center Jarrett Allen mentioned Mutombo’s widespread cultural impact. “Honestly, I know him more for his commercials. It’s just how I grew up. I never got to watch him play. It just shows the impact he’s made not only on the court. I know he’s done a lot of work worldwide and made an impact on everybody’s lives in a different way,” Allen said. He wanted to revive Mutombo’s iconic finger-wag celebration but was informed of his passing earlier in the day.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens spoke of the community’s loss. “Like many across the globe, my heart is heavy with the loss of Atlanta Hawks legend and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo. I am grateful for the opportunity to visit with him and his wife Rose at their home last month and express the gratitude and pride Atlantans and millions worldwide held for such a truly good man. He is not just a Hall of Famer — he is irreplaceable. My prayers are with his family and loved ones,” Dickens stated.
Toronto Raptors President Masai Ujiri encapsulated the sentiment, saying, “It’s really hard to believe and it’s hard for us to be without that guy.”
Ryan Mutombo, Dikembe’s son, shared a poignant tribute. “He loved others with every ounce of his being. That’s what made him so accessible. That’s what made him real. Dikembe Mutombo was salt and light, and today, on the 30th of September, 2024, he has been called to rest. I love you, Dad. Rest easy,” Ryan expressed.
Hawks principal owner Tony Ressler acknowledged Mutombo’s lasting legacy. “I was fortunate to have been able to call him a friend. My family and I were beyond proud to have him represent the Hawks organization on and off the court. With his jersey in the rafters, his life and legacy will always be remembered in Atlanta,” Ressler stated.
Serge Ibaka, a former NBA player, expressed admiration for Mutombo’s influence. “You paved the way for me and for many Congolese and African youth with your legendary basketball career and charitable actions. You are an NBA legend and an African icon and that will inspire the many coming generations,” Ibaka declared.
Georgetown athletic director Lee Reed reflected on Mutombo’s broader impact. “Georgetown lost one of its best in Dikembe Mutombo. Basketball fans remember him for his defense, rebounding and that trademark finger wag, but to those of us that knew him well, we will miss the father, teammate, mentor and friend. Dikembe left his mark on the Georgetown community in so many ways, but he will be best remembered for his unique gift of leveraging his platform as a Hall of Fame basketball player to maximize his global impact as a humanitarian,” Reed shared.
76ers guard Kyle Lowry acknowledged the dual pain of a personal and professional loss. “Doing the things he’s done — did — it’s tough for everybody. It’s tough for the world. Being a fan of his, and then having an opportunity to play with him, gives me a different perspective as a friend of his. Tough day. but he’s going to be watching over us,” Lowry said.
Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta remarked on Mutombo’s universal respect within the NBA. “Dikembe was beloved by the entire NBA community and his tireless humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark on our league,” Fertitta noted.
Cindy McCain, widow of the late U.S. Sen. John McCain, expressed personal sorrow. “I knew him as a true humanitarian. … I will love and miss him terribly,” McCain shared.
Former NBA player Etan Thomas highlighted Mutombo’s selflessness. “He was one of the nicest guys on earth and had such a huge heart. He genuinely wanted to help as many people in the world that he possibly could. Just had a beautiful spirit about him,” Thomas said.
These heartfelt tributes paint a vivid picture of Dikembe Mutombo’s extraordinary life, as a basketball legend and a global humanitarian, whose impact will resonate for generations to come.
