Response to the death of Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, who died Monday of brain cancer. He was 58.

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“I am deeply saddened to hear about Dikembe’s passing. He was a defensive force on the court who changed the way the game of basketball is played. But more importantly, Dikembe has 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.” — Basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan.

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“I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing firsthand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people. He was always accessible at NBA events over the years – with his infectious smile, deep booming voice and signature finger wag endearing him to basketball fans of every generation. Dikembe’s indomitable spirit lives on in those he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life. I am one of the many people whose lives were touched by Dikembe’s big heart and I will miss him dearly.” — NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.

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“As a basketball player, he was perhaps the best defensive player to ever play in the NBA. I’ve never seen (Bill) Russell play, but he must be very good to be as good as Dikembe. You are very lucky as a coach if your best player is the one who works the hardest and follows all the rules, and that is what Dikembe did. But his legacy could be even greater thanks to the work he did off the field.” – Former Nuggets coach Dan Issel

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“Dikembe was not only great on the pitch but also 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 helping others, will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this very difficult time. May he rest in peace.” — Famer Pau Gasol’s Basketball Hall.

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“To be honest, I know him more from his commercials. It’s just how I grew up. I never saw him play. It just shows the impact he has made, not just on the field. I know he has done a lot of work worldwide and has impacted everyone’s lives in a different way.” – Cleveland center Jarrett Allen, who revealed Monday that he wanted to bring back Mutombo’s finger-wagging party before he was told the Hall of Famer had died earlier in the day.

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“Like many around the world, my heart is heavy with the loss of Atlanta Hawks legend and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo. I am grateful for the opportunity to visit him and his wife Rose at their home last month and express the gratitude and pride that Atlantans and millions of people around the world felt for such a truly good man. Not only is he a Hall of Famer, he is irreplaceable. My prayers are with his family and loved ones.” —Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.

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“It’s really hard to believe and it’s hard for us to be without that guy.” — Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri.

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“He loved others with every ounce of his being. That made him so accessible. That made him real. Dikembe Mutombo was salt and light, and today, on September 30, 2024, he was called to rest. I love you, daddy. Rest in peace.” – Ryan Mutombo, son of Dikembe Mutombo.

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“I was lucky enough to call him a friend. My family and I were extremely proud to have him represent the Hawks organization on and off the field. With his jersey in the rafters, his life and legacy will always be remembered in Atlanta.” —Tony Ressler, Hawks principal owner.

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“You paved the way for me and for many Congolese and African youth with your legendary basketball career and charity actions. You are an NBA legend and an African icon and that will inspire many generations to come.” — Former NBA player Serge Ibaka.

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“Georgetown lost one of its best in Dikembe Mutombo. Basketball fans remember him for his defense, rebounding and that trademark finger-wagging, but for those of us who knew him well, the father, teammate, mentor and friend will be missed. Dikembe left his mark on the Georgetown community in so many ways, but he will be most remembered for his unique ability to use his platform as a Hall of Fame basketball player to maximize his global impact as a humanitarian. — Georgetown athletic director Lee Reed.

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“It’s hard for anyone to do what he’s done and what he’s done. It’s hard for the world. Being a fan of his and then getting the chance to play with him gives me a different perspective as a friend. Difficult day. but he will watch over us.” – 76ers guard Kyle Lowry.

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“Dikembe was loved by the entire NBA community and his tireless humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark on our league.” — Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta.

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“I knew him as a true humanist. … I will love him and miss him terribly.” – Cindy McCain, the widow of the late U.S. Senator John McCain.

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“He was one of the nicest guys on the planet and had such a big heart. He sincerely wanted to help as many people in the world as he could. Just had a beautiful spirit about him. – former NBA player Etan Thomas.

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