The basketball world is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved figures, as legendary center Dikembe Mutombo passed away this past week at the age of 58 following a courageous battle with brain cancer. Known not only for his dominance on the court but also for his humanitarian efforts off of it, Mutombo’s death has prompted an outpouring of love and support from fans, fellow players, and communities around the globe.
As his family navigates this profound loss, they have made a heartfelt request for those looking to honor Mutombo’s legacy. According to TMZ Sports, Mutombo’s wife and three children have released a statement expressing their deep gratitude for the love they’ve received and encouraging fans to contribute to the Dikembe Mutombo Memorial Fund, which supports the many charitable causes the Hall of Famer championed throughout his life.
“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and condolences we have received from people around the world following the passing of our beloved Dikembe,” the family shared in their statement. “Dikembe was a servant of God, a wonderful husband, father, humanitarian, and athlete. He touched countless lives on and off the court with his generosity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. Your kind words and condolences during the past two years, especially this past week, have brought us immense comfort during this difficult time.”
Mutombo’s family acknowledged the deep impact the former NBA star had, not just through his incredible basketball career but through his tireless work in philanthropy, particularly in his native Democratic Republic of Congo, where he established hospitals and provided healthcare for underserved communities. His legacy extends far beyond basketball, and his contributions to improving the lives of others remain at the forefront of how his family wishes him to be remembered.
“We also want to thank our NBA and Georgetown families and friends for their love and support,” the family continued. “In the coming days, we will be holding a very private service for family and then working together with the NBA to hold a larger event at a later date to celebrate Dikembe’s extraordinary life and legacy.”
In their statement, the family also encouraged those wishing to honor Mutombo to refrain from sending flowers, instead urging donations to the Dikembe Mutombo Memorial Fund. The fund will continue to support the causes and organizations Mutombo cared deeply about, ensuring that his charitable work will live on even after his passing. “In lieu of flowers, we encourage donations to the Dikembe Mutombo Memorial Fund, which will benefit the causes and organizations that Dikembe dedicated his life to supporting,” the family wrote.
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Mutombo’s 19-year NBA career was nothing short of extraordinary. He was an eight-time NBA All-Star, a two-time league leader in rebounds, and a three-time leader in blocks. His defensive prowess and signature finger-wag after blocking opponents’ shots made him an iconic figure in the sport. His No. 55 jersey has been retired by both the Atlanta Hawks and the Denver Nuggets, a testament to his lasting impact on both franchises. In 2015, Mutombo was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among basketball’s all-time greats.
As the NBA community, and fans around the world, reflect on the life and legacy of Dikembe Mutombo, it’s clear that his contributions will be remembered for generations to come. Whether through his achievements on the court or his humanitarian work off of it, Mutombo’s influence has been far-reaching, touching countless lives. His family’s request for continued support of his charitable causes ensures that his legacy will continue to uplift and inspire.
The Mutombo family ended their statement with a final note of gratitude: “Thank you once again for your kindness, understanding, and continued respect for our privacy as we navigate this profound loss.”
As tributes pour in for the legendary shot-blocker and humanitarian, plans are already in the works for a larger event to celebrate his extraordinary life, one that will allow fans and the basketball community to come together and honor a man who gave so much to the world.
