The 7’2” player won friends while blocking their shots, and won fans for his towering presence as a trailblazer off the court.

NBA star Dikembe Mutombo has died at 58 after battling brain cancer. Discover his inspiring story as a humanitarian and NBA legend with lasting community impact.

Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo – known for his shot-blocking and famed finger wave after denying opponents at the hoop – died Monday from brain cancer aged 58, according to the NBA.

Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo has died at 58 years old after a battle with brain cancer. Mutombo’s career spanned from 1992-2009, and featured eight All-Star appearances and four Defensive Player of the Year awards. “Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.

Dikembe Mutombo’s family issued a statement Thursday thanking the community for their support after his death.

NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo, who also had a massive impact off the court, passed away on Monday at the age of 58 from brain cancer. While he was a dominant force in the league, Mutombo was a great human.

The basketball world lost an icon this past week as legendary big man Dikembe Mutombo passed away at the age of 58 following a battle with brain cancer. As the family continues to mourn, his loved ones have a request for fans looking to show their appreciation and respect.