Dikembe Mutombo dies – dead at 58

Mar 7, 2020; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Georgetown Hoyas former player Dikembe Mutombo at the game against the Villanova Wildcats during the second half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo has died.

The NBA issued a statement on Monday revealing that Mutombo has died after a battle with brain cancer. The Hall of Fame former center was 58.

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

Mutombo revealed in October 2022 that he had undergone treatment for a brain tumor. He was said to be “in great spirits” at the time, and an ex-teammate offered a positive update about Mutombo several days later.

Mutombo played in the NBA from 1991-2009. He was drafted No. 4 overall by Denver in 1991 out of Georgetown and made the All-Star team as a rookie. Mutombo made eight All-Star games and was a four-time Defensive Player of the Year. His best seasons came with the Nuggets and Hawks.

The 7-foot-2 Mutombo was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015. His famous finger wag has been imitated by numerous NBA players over the years.