NBA Legend Dikembe Mutombo Dies from Brain Cancer at 58

NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in basketball history, has passed away at the age of 58 after a battle with brain cancer. The eight-time All-Star, who spent 18 years in the league, began treatment for a brain tumor in October 2022.

Mutombo, a towering 7ft 2in center from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, played for six teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, and Houston Rockets. Known for his shot-blocking prowess and his signature finger-wag celebration, he was a beloved figure on and off the court.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver honored Mutombo, 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.”

Mutombo’s humanitarian efforts, particularly in his native Congo and across Africa, were a central part of his legacy. His passion for giving back to communities and his status as a global NBA ambassador made him a symbol of how sports can bring about positive change.

Mutombo’s iconic career saw his number 55 jersey retired by both the Atlanta Hawks and Denver Nuggets. His contributions to the sport were immortalized in 2015 with his induction into the NBA Hall of Fame.