(SenePlus) – The basketball world is in mourning. Dikembe Mutombo, Congolese NBA legend, died at the age of 58 following cancer, as announced by the North American Basketball League on Monday. Nicknamed “Mount Mutombo” in reference to his imposing stature of 2.18 meters, he leaves behind an exceptional sporting legacy.
Mutombo marked his era with a formidable defense that earned him eight All-Star Game selections between the 1990s and 2000s. His impressive record includes four titles for defender of the year, three for best blocker and two for best rebounder, testifying to his domination in the racket.
Born in Kinshasa, the Congolese pivot wore the colors of eight NBA franchises during his career. His American journey began in 1991 with the Denver Nuggets and ended in 2009 with the Houston Rockets, at the ripe age of 43. Although he participated in two NBA finals, in 2001 with the Philadelphia 76ers and in 2003 with the San Antonio Spurs, the supreme title always eluded him.
Mutombo’s career, spanning nearly two decades, illustrates his exceptional longevity and lasting impact on the game. His departure leaves a huge void in international basketball, where he had become an iconic figure, particularly for the African continent. .
