An notification on the NBA’s social media account stated that Dikembe Mutombo, the NBA legend renowned for his mastery of shot-blocking and kind humanitarian efforts, has passed away at the age of 58. After battling brain cancer, Dikembe Mutombo, a former NBA Global Ambassador and member of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, passed away. According to information posted on September 30 on the NBA’s official Twitter account, he passed away accompanied by his family. In an emotional statement, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Mutombo’s contributions on and off the court. According to Silver, “Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life.”
Silver also emphasized the late athlete’s accomplishments as one of the best shot blockers and defensive players in NBA history. The Commissioner said, “Off the floor, he devoted his heart and soul into assisting others.” Silver discussed Mutombo’s humanitarian endeavors, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and throughout Africa, as well as his work as the NBA’s inaugural Global Ambassador. He said, “I had the honor of touring the globe with Dikembe and witnessing firsthand how his kindness and generosity brightened people.” “Over the years, he was always approachable at NBA events,” Silver reminisced. “His contagious smile, rich, powerful voice, and distinctive finger wag won him over to basketball fans of all generations.”
In closing, the NBA official expressed his sincere condolences to Mutombo’s family, friends, and the basketball community worldwide, highlighting the great affection the late basketball player had for all of them. “Those that Dipembe aided and inspired during his exceptional life bear witness to his unwavering spirit. Dikembe’s large heart affected the lives of many, including me, and I will miss him terribly,” Silver thought. Apart from his accomplishments in his career and community service, Mutombo was also a loving spouse to Rose and a proud father of his three kids, Ryan, Jean Jacques, and Carrie.
On social media, Mutombo frequently expressed his love for Rose. In June 2021, he made a noteworthy post commemorating their 27th wedding anniversary. “We have experienced so much together—both good and difficult times,” he wrote. We value everything that unites us. Life has taken us on many travels, but you have always been with me through it all. Love never fades 
[sic].
Apart from openly declaring his love for his spouse, Mutombo also frequently discussed their vacation experiences together. He wrote, “Last week in Tokyo, Rose & I got an opportunity to go out and see the Garden of the Imperial Palace,” in a post on their trip to Japan in October 2022. His final post with his wife would be this one. Mutombo conveyed his happiness and pleasure in his kids as a father. In June 2022, he shared a Father’s Day Instagram post saying, “Our children are our whole existence and that produces a lot of admiration.” Additionally, Mutombo sent a poignant message to fellow fathers, saying, “I hope you have a great day with them. Continue being an excellent father and modeling for them.