Photo credit: NBA

The NBA world is mourning the loss of one of its true legends, Dikembe Mutombo, whose towering presence on and off the court left an indelible mark on the game and beyond. Known for his shot-blocking prowess, legendary defense, and iconic finger-wag after every rejection, Mutombo’s legacy transcends his 18 years in the league.

The four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year passed away on September 30 at 58 years old, following a battle with brain cancer. Mutombo was an unstoppable force during his playing days, leading the league in blocks for three consecutive seasons and racking up career averages of 9.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. He played for multiple teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Houston Rockets.

But Mutombo’s influence extended far beyond basketball. As the NBA’s first Global Ambassador, he dedicated his post-retirement years to philanthropy and humanitarian work, striving to uplift his home country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the entire African continent.

Superstars like LeBron James, Joel Embiid, and other NBA greats have since shared heartfelt tributes, remembering the man behind the finger wag, whose smile lit up rooms and whose generosity touched lives worldwide.

LeBron James took a trip down memory lane, sharing a personal story about Mutombo during the Lakers’ media day. “My fondest memory of Dikembe Mutombo — he fractured my face. On my birthday in Cleveland with an elbow,” LeBron recalled with a smile. “I was in Cleveland, my first stint... and he was in Houston. I went to the hole and caught one of those Dikembe elbows. If anybody knows about the Dikembe elbow, they do not feel good. He fractured my face, and I went to the hospital that night. That’s my memory of Dikembe.”

For Joel Embiid, the loss of Mutombo hit particularly hard. “It’s a sad day, especially for us Africans,” Embiid said, his voice heavy with emotion. “He was a role model for me and so many others. What he accomplished on the court was special, but what he did off the court was even more impactful. He’s one of the guys I look up to in terms of having an impact ... He did a lot of great things for a lot of people.”

Six-time NBA champion Scottie Pippen shared a touching message as well, highlighting Mutombo’s purpose-driven life. “He was a man of purpose, whose legacy is built on the countless lives he touched, the communities he helped, and the powerful example he set. His smile, his spirit, and his love for humanity will never be forgotten.”

Pau Gasol, another Hall of Famer, echoed the sentiments of his peers. “Dikembe was not only great on the court, but a force for good off it,” Gasol shared on social media. “His smile, his values, and his dedication to basketball, as well as to helping others, will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with his family and his loved ones at this very difficult time.”

It’s clear that Mutombo’s legacy is one that will stand the test of time. Not just for the iconic finger-wag and his defensive brilliance, but for the lives he changed and the hope he spread long after his playing days were over. Rest in peace, Dikembe Mutombo. The world lost a giant, but your impact will live on forever.