The basketball world is in mourning following the passing of NBA legend and African icon Dikembe Mutombo, whose death was announced yesterday.
Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with NBA Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) honoring his immense contributions both on and off the court.
Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa, expressed her profound grief over the loss, stating, “What a sad day for basketball in Africa and beyond! We have lost a true legend. We share the weight of this loss with his family and all those who were touched by him, on the court and off the court.”
Mutombo, a towering figure in basketball, was renowned for his dominance as one of the greatest shot-blockers in NBA history.
However, his impact reached far beyond his athletic achievements. He was also a humanitarian, dedicating his life to improving healthcare and education in Africa, particularly in his native Democratic Republic of Congo.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver paid tribute to Mutombo, describing him as “larger than life.” He highlighted Mutombo’s role as the NBA’s first Global Ambassador, a position that allowed him to use basketball to positively affect communities across Africa.
“He was a humanitarian at his core,” Silver said. “His generosity and compassion uplifted people, and his infectious smile, deep booming voice, and signature finger wag endeared him to basketball fans of every generation.”
Silver added, “Dikembe’s indomitable spirit continues in those he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life. On behalf of the entire NBA family, I send my deepest condolences to Dikembe’s wife, Rose, and their children, along with the global basketball community which he truly loved and which loved him back.”
Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors and a fellow African basketball figure, also shared his heartfelt sentiments.
He described Mutombo as not only a basketball giant but also a beacon of philanthropy and leadership for Africa. Ujiri noted how Mutombo tirelessly worked to promote basketball across the continent and used his platform to give back to underserved communities.
“As we remember his contributions and his character, we honor a true pioneer who exemplified greatness both on the court and in service to others,” NBA Africa said in a statement.
Dikembe Mutombo’s legacy goes beyond his extraordinary career. He inspired countless young athletes across Africa and the world, leaving a lasting imprint on the sport and the many lives he touched through his philanthropy.
His loss is deeply felt by the global basketball community, who will forever remember him as a legend both on and off the court.
