Reaction to the death of Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo

Reaction to the death of Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, who died Monday from brain cancer. He was 58 years old.

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“I am deeply saddened to learn of Dikembe’s death. He was a defensive force on the court who changed the way basketball is played. But more importantly, Dikembe truly changed the world and improved countless lives through his humanitarian work in Africa. I will especially miss his booming laugh. My condolences to his wife Rose, his children and his family. – Basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan.

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“I have had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion have uplifted people. He was always approachable at NBA events over the years – with his infectious smile, deep, booming voice and signature fingers that endeared him to basketball fans of all generations. Dikembe’s indomitable spirit lives on in those 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. — NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.

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“As a basketball player, he might have been the best defensive player to ever play in the NBA. I’ve never seen (Bill) Russell play, but he’d have to be awfully good to be as good as Dikembe. You are very lucky as a coach when your best player is the one who works the hardest and follows all the rules, and that is what Dikembe did. But his legacy could be even greater with the work he did off the field. — Former Nuggets coach Dan Issel

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“Dikembe was not only great on the field, but also a positive force off it, admired and loved by those who got to know him. His smile, his values ​​and his dedication to basketball and helping others will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this very difficult time. May he rest in peace. » — Basketball Hall of Famer Pau Gasol.

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“Honestly, I know him more for his commercials. That’s just how I grew up. I never had the opportunity to see him play. It just shows the impact he had not only on the field. I know he has done a lot of work around the world and has impacted everyone’s lives in different ways. — Cleveland center Jarrett Allen, who revealed Monday he wanted to bring back the Mutombo celebration before learning the Hall of Famer had died earlier in the day.

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“Like many around the world, my heart is heavy with the loss of Atlanta Hawks legend and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo. I am grateful for the opportunity to visit him and his wife Rose at their home last month and express the gratitude and pride of Atlantans and millions around the world for such a good man. He’s not just a Hall of Famer: he’s irreplaceable. My prayers go out to his family and loved ones. — Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.

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“It’s really hard to believe and it’s hard for us to live without this guy.” — Toronto Raptors President Masai Ujiri.

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“He loved others with every ounce of his being. That’s what made it so accessible. That’s what made it real. Dikembe Mutombo was salt and light, and today, September 30, 2024, he is called to rest. I love you, dad. Be calm. — Ryan Mutombo, son of Dikembe Mutombo.

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“I was lucky enough to be able to call him a friend. My family and I were beyond proud to see him represent the Hawks organization on and off the field. With his jersey in the rafters, his life and legacy will always be remembered in Atlanta. —Hawks principal owner Tony Ressler.

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“You paved the way for me and for many young Congolese and Africans with your legendary basketball career and your charitable actions. You are an NBA legend and an African icon and that will inspire many generations to come. — Former NBA player Serge Ibaka.

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“Georgetown lost one of its best in Dikembe Mutombo. Basketball fans remember him for his defense, his rebounds and that signature finger gesture, but to those of us who knew him well, the father, teammate, mentor and friend we will be missed. Dikembe left his mark on the Georgetown community in many ways, but he will be most remembered for his unique gift of leveraging his platform as a Hall of Fame basketball player to maximize his global impact as a humanitarian. —Georgetown athletic director Lee Reed.

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“Doing what he did – is doing – it’s difficult for everyone. It’s hard for the world. Being a fan of his, and then having the opportunity to play with him, gives me a different perspective as a friend of his. Difficult day. but he will watch over us. – The 76ers keep Kyle Lowry.

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“Dikembe was beloved by the entire NBA community and his tireless humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark on our league.” — Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta.

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“I knew him as a true humanitarian. …I will love him and miss him terribly. — Cindy McCain, the widow of the late U.S. Senator John McCain.

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“He was one of the nicest guys in the world and had such a huge heart. He sincerely wanted to help as many people in the world as possible. I just had a beautiful spirit about him. — former NBA player Etan Thomas.

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