The legendary NBA player, Dikembe Mutombo, sadly, lost his life at the age of 58. Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and former NBA Global Ambassador Dikembe Mutombo was struggling with brain cancer, and his passing announced by NBA’s official social media account.
“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver shared in the statement he released. “Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others.”
“I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people,” Silver praised Dikembe’s humanitarian efforts.
“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.”
To his statement, “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 [sic],” Silver continued.
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/uHgZgSBDUJ
— NBA (@NBA) September 30, 2024
Mutombo was also a great father to his children Jean Jacques, Carrie, and Ryan, and a devoted husband to his wife Rose.
Back in 2021, Mutombo celebrated the 27th wedding anniversary with his wife Rose, as he shared from his social media, “We have been through so much together; good times and bad. We cherish all that we share. Life has taken us on many journeys, but you have always been with me through it all. Love always ❤️🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿 [sic].”
Ryan had shared a heartfelt tribute to his late father from his private social media account. Ryan named his father as his hero and added, “He remains the purest heart I have ever known.”
“At times, I thought of my dad as a super-human. The child in me would sigh to hear that this was never actually the case. My dad was a regular man who would stop at no lengths to honor the world, its people, and its creator. He loved others with every ounce of his being. That’s what made him so accessible. That’s what made him real.” Ryan explained.
Dikembe Mutombo's son, Ryan, shared a special message honoring his father ❤️
(via ryanmutombo/IG) pic.twitter.com/hHvrpJwFDx
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) September 30, 2024
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