Mutombo was a legend of world basketball / Photo: Newsweek
The legendary former basketball player Dikembe Mutombo died this Monday at the age of 58 due to brain cancer that he was diagnosed with two years ago, according to the NBA.
“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life. On the court, he was one of the best shot blockers and defensive players in NBA history. Off the court, he put his heart and soul into helping others” League Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.
“Dikembe’s indomitable spirit continues in those he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life,” he added.
Member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, the Congolese played 18 seasons in the NBA in which he stood out above all for his imposing defensive power.
Important numbers
Thus, Mutombo is the second player with the most blocks in NBA history with 3,289, only behind another illustrious African center such as Hakeem Olajuwon (3,830).
Throughout his career in the NBA (1991-2009) he played for six teams: Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets.
Mutombo was an eight-time All-Star and won the Defender of the Year award four times.
Life off the court
After leaving professional sports, Mutombo dedicated much of his time to charitable purposes and social causes.
In October 2022 he announced that he had a brain tumor and had started treatment.
New York / EFE
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2024-10-01 11:24:47
