Remembering Dikembe Mutombo-Magic Johnson and Adam Silver Release Statements

The news regarding Dikembe Mutombo has hit the NBA and sports world hard. This is a player who was a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, eight-time All-Star, three-time All-NBA, and he led the league in blocks three times. He was charismatic, talented and hardworking. A basketball player who truly left a mark on the game and the world before his unfortunate passing. This week to remember Dikembe Mutombo Magic Johnson and Adam Silver release statements.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement:

“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life. On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others.

There was nobody more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA’s first Global Ambassador. He was a humanitarian at his core. He loved what the game of baskethall could do to make a positive impact on communities, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the continent of Africa. I had the privilege of traveling 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. On behalf of the entire NBA family, I send my deepest condolences to Dikembe’s wife, Rose, and their children; his many friends, and the global basketball community which he truly loved and which loved him back.”

Remembering Dikembe Mutombo-Magic Johnson and Adam Silver Release Statements

Fellow NBA great, Magic Johnson, also took time to share some expressions regarding Mutombo. Magic highlights Dikembe’s off the court dealings as well as the friendship they shared. Johnson mentions,

“I’m so heartbroken to hear about the passing of my dear friend and basketball Hall of Famer, Dikembe Mutombo. He was not only a great basketball player who could protect the rim as an elite shot-blocker, but also an incredible man with a pure heart of gold. He dedicated much of his life to serving others, which is evident through his lasting impact both in the U.S. and in Africa. Through his foundation, he helped build a remarkable $29 million hospital in his home country of Congo, personally contributing $15 million to the project! As an NBA Global Ambassador and a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations, he received numerous well-deserved awards over the years for his humanitarian efforts.

I will truly miss his big smile, his spirit, and his powerful voice. Cookie and I are keeping his wife Rose, his children, and the rest of his family in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

We have to concur with Magic and Adam. Will definitely miss Dikembe’s warm, radiant smile and his iconic finger wag. A life well lived, but gone too soon.

Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo passed away Monday at the age of 58 from brain cancer. He was surrounded by his family.

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