Reaction to the death of Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo
Reactions to the death of Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Reaction to the death of Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, who died Monday from brain cancer. He was 58.
___
āI am deeply saddened to hear about Dikembeās passing. He was a defensive force on the court who changed the way the game of 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 hearing his booming laugh. My condolences to his wife, Rose, his children and his family.ā ā Basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan.
___
āI had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people. He was always accessible at NBA events over the years ā with his infectious smile, deep booming voice and signature finger wag that endeared him to basketball fans of every generation. Dikembeās indomitable spirit continues on in those who he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life. I am one of the many people whose lives were touched by Dikembeās big heart and I will miss him dearly.ā ā NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
___
āDikembe was not only great on the court, but a force for good off it, admired and loved by those who got to know him. His smile, his values and his dedication to basketball, as well as to helping others, will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with his family and his loved ones at this very difficult time. May he rest in peace.ā ā Basketball Hall of Famer Pau Gasol.
___
āHonestly, I know him more for his commercials. Itās just how I grew up. I never got to watch him play. It just shows the impact heās made not only on the court. I know heās done a lot of work worldwide and made an impact on everybodyās lives in a different way.ā ā Cleveland center Jarrett Allen, who revealed Monday that he wanted to bring back Mutombo's finger-wag celebration before being told that the Hall of Famer had died earlier in the day.
___
āLike many across the globe, my heart is heavy with the loss of Atlanta Hawks legend and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo. I am grateful for the opportunity to visit with him and his wife Rose at their home last month and express the gratitude and pride Atlantans and millions worldwide held for such a truly good man. He is not just a Hall of Famer ā he is irreplaceable. My prayers are with his family and loved ones.ā ā Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.
___
āIt's really hard to believe and it's hard for us to be without that guy.ā ā Toronto Raptors President Masai Ujiri.
___
āHe loved others with every ounce of his being. Thatās what made him so accessible. Thatās what made him real. Dikembe Mutombo was salt and light, and today, on the 30th of September, 2024, he has been called to rest. I love you, Dad. Rest easy.ā ā Ryan Mutombo, Dikembe Mutombo's son.
___
āA legend of the game, on and off the court. You will be missed, Dikembe.ā ā statement from the Brooklyn Nets.
___
āDikembe was beloved by the entire NBA community and his tireless humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark on our league.ā ā Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta.
___
āI knew him as a true humanitarian. ... I will love and miss him terribly.ā ā Cindy McCain, the widow of late U.S. Sen. John McCain.
___
āHe was one of the nicest guys on earth and had such a huge heart. He genuinely wanted to help as many people in the world that he possibly could. Just had a beautiful spirit about him.ā ā former NBA player Etan Thomas.
___
AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba