Atlanta grieves the loss of Hawks legend Dikembe Mutombo.
ATLANTA – The city of Atlanta is mourning the death of former Atlanta Hawks star and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo, who died at 58 after battling brain cancer, the NBA announced. Mutombo, a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and global ambassador for the league, passed away surrounded by his family, according to the NBA.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver paid tribute to Mutombo’s legacy in a statement, saying, “Dikembe Mutombo was truly larger than life. On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in NBA history. Off the court, he devoted himself entirely to helping others.”
Famous for his iconic finger wag after blocking shots, Mutombo played 18 seasons in the NBA, with standout years on the Atlanta Hawks. He was an eight-time All-Star and a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, solidifying his place as one of the league’s top centers. Beyond basketball, Mutombo made a significant impact by founding the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation in 1997, which focused on improving health, education, and quality of life in his home country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Dikembe Mutombo attended the 2022 Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony on September 10, 2022, at Symphony Hall in Springfield, Massachusetts. In Atlanta, news of his passing led to an outpouring of tributes. Mayor Andre Dickens reflected on Mutombo’s legacy as both a player and humanitarian, stating, “Like many around the world, I feel a deep sadness at the loss of Atlanta Hawks legend and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo. He wasn’t just a Hall of Famer—he was truly irreplaceable. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”
DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond also highlighted Mutombo’s commitment to the community, saying, “Dikembe Mutombo used his talents to uplift communities both in Georgia and across Africa. His ‘NO NO NO, not in my house COVID-19’ became an inspiration for thousands to get vaccinated through our ‘Get Vaxxed’ COVID-19 campaign. He will be deeply missed.”
The Atlanta City Council also honored his legacy, recognizing his contributions to the city and beyond. “We are saddened by the passing of Naismith Hall of Famer and Atlanta Hawks legend Dikembe Mutombo. His impact on our community during his time with the Hawks was immense, and his presence has been felt long after his retirement from professional basketball.”
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