Dikembe Mutombo (1966 – 2024) was a Congolese-American basketball player and humanitarian, regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history. A 7-foot-2-inch center, he played 18 seasons and became known for his shot-blocking dominance.
Born in Leopoldville, DRC, he moved to the U.S. in 1987 to attend Georgetown University on a scholarship. Originally planning a medical career, he was recruited by coach John Thompson and quickly became a defensive force. In the 1991 NBA Draft, he was selected 4th overall by the Denver Nuggets. His rookie season earned him an All-Star selection, and he later played for teams including the Hawks, 76ers, and Rockets.
A four-time Defensive Player of the Year, he led the NBA in blocks three times and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015. His signature finger wag after blocks became iconic. Beyond basketball, he was deeply involved in humanitarian work, building hospitals in the Congo and supporting global health initiatives.
Mutombo passed away in 2024 from brain cancer, leaving behind a legacy of excellence on and off the court. His influence in basketball and philanthropy remains enduring.