On Monday, it was announced that Hall of Fame center Dikembe Mutombo died from brain cancer.
He was 58.
The eight-time All-Star spent 18 years in the NBA, playing for the Nuggets, Hawks, 76ers, Nets, Knicks, and Rockets.
Mutombo won Defensive Player of the Year four times and made two appearances in the NBA Finals with the 76ers and Nets.
In addition, Mutombo did many things away from basketball, including building a hospital in home country, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Atlanta Hawks Principal Owner Tony Ressler released a statement on the death of Dikembe Mutombo:
“We are deeply saddened by the news of Dikembe Mutombo’s passing.
“Dikembe was a proud and honorable man, who lived up to the definition of a word that became synonymous with his name – humanitarian. He used his many gifts and his platform to improve the lives of everyone he encountered, especially in his homeland of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and throughout Africa.
“His passion for the game, its growth and the joy he brought to defense – including his undeniable presence and iconic ‘finger wag’ – made him a star on the court and with the fans around the globe.
“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.
“On behalf of the entire Hawks organization, our thoughts, prayers and support are with Rose and their family at this difficult time.”
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