A very tall pivot (2.18 m), he was an eight-time All-Star in the 1990s and 2000s, being especially recognized for his defensive qualities. He was voted defender of the year four times, also finishing best blocker three times and best rebounder twice.
He became known for his characteristic finger gesture when blocking a shot, a gesture that the NBA ultimately banned after ruling that it was a form of taunt.
Born in Kinshasa and arrived in the United States at 21, Mutombo played in two finals, in 2001 with the Philadelphia Sixers against the Lakers and in 2003 with the New Jersey Nets against San Antonio, but never won the title.
“Mount Mutombo” wore the jersey of eight NBA franchises during a journey that began in 1991 in Denver and ended in Houston in 2009 at the age of 43.
“Sad day”
“It’s a sad day, for the whole world and even more for us Africans,” said center Joel Embiid, Philadelphia star and MVP in 2023.
“He was one of my role models, for his impact on and off the field. He did many good things, for many people. »
Daryl Morey, manager of the 76ers, announced visibly moved the death of Mutombo in the middle of a pre-season press conference, he who had worked with the former player in Houston.
“I knew him personally (…) obviously there was his success on the ground, no need to elaborate, but above all he was a wonderful man, particularly for his work in Africa. »
Off the court, Mutombo has been tirelessly involved in improving living conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, his country of origin, through his personal foundation.
These efforts, which included donating millions of dollars to help build a hospital in the suburbs of Kinshasa, earned him numerous humanitarian awards, including the President of the United States Volunteer Service Award.
“Dikembe Mutombo, on the court, was one of the greatest defenders and blockers in NBA history. Off the field, he devoted his heart and soul to helping others,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver paid tribute in a press release, highlighting his humanitarian work.
