Jordan, NBA, family mourn Mutombo’s passing

AP:

NBA GREAT Michael Jordan is just one of the many famous names from whom condolences and words of affection have poured at the passing of another Hall of Famer, Dikembe Mutombo.

One of the best defensive players in NBA history and a longtime global ambassador for the game, Mutombo died yesterday from brain cancer, the league announced. He was 58.

His family revealed two years ago that he was undergoing treatment in Atlanta for a brain tumor. The NBA said he died surrounded by his family.

“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,” said Jordan.

Adam Silver, NBA commissioner, spoke of Mutombo’s compassion and iconic gestures.

“I had the privilege of travelling 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,” said Silver.

Other tributes have come in from fellow NBA players and even politicians.

Fellow Hall of Famer Pau Gasol said Mutombo was not only great on the court, but a force for good off it, admired and loved by those who got to know him.”

While Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said the loss was immense.

“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,” said Dickens.

Mutombo’s son, Ryan, spoke of MUtombo’s big heart, saying: “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.”

Even Cindy McCain, widow of late US Senator John McCain, has felt the loss, saying she “knew him as a true humanitarian”.

“I will love and miss him terribly,” she said.

Mutombo spent 18 seasons in the NBA, playing for Denver, Atlanta, Houston, Philadelphia, New York, and the then-New Jersey Nets. The 7-foot-2 centre out of Georgetown was an eight-time All-Star, three-time All-NBA selection and went into the Hall of Fame in 2015 after averaging 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game for his career.

He also was part of one of the league’s most iconic playoff moments, helping eighth-seeded Denver oust top-seeded Seattle in the first round of the 1994 Western Conference playoffs. That best-of-five series marked the first time a number-eight beat a number-one in NBA history.

Mutombo last played during the 2008-09 season, devoting his time after retirement to charitable and humanitarian causes. He spoke nine languages and founded the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation in 1997, concentrating on improving health, education, and quality of life for the people in the Congo.