The basketball world has been left shocked by the news that NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo is undergoing treatment for a brain tumour.
Mutombo was an eight-time NBA All-Star and widely regarded as one of the best defenders of all time, and has been a global ambassador for the league for many years now.
The NBA announced the devastating news over the weekend on behalf of the legend’s family.
The statement read: “NBA Global Ambassador and Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumour.
“He is receiving the best care possible from a collaborative team of specialists in Atlanta and is in great spirits as he begins treatment.
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“Dikembe and his family ask for privacy during this time so they can focus on his care.
“They are grateful for your prayers and good wishes.”
Hailing from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mutombo is one of basketball's most widely loved and respected personalities.
Plying his trade in the 1990s and 2000s, the 56-year-old played for the likes of the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, 76ers, New Jersey Nets, and New York Knicks.
He finished off his career in 2009 at the Houston Rockets in his 18th season.
His iconic number 55 jersey has been retired by the Hawks and Nuggets outlining the respect the league had for his tenure.
The saddening news of his brain tumour left many in the basketball community rocked and sending their love.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Dikembe, one of the world’s great humanitarians.”
Fellow Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing wrote: “Please keep Dikembe and the Mutombo family in your prayers. Hoya Nation is behind you, Dikembe.”
Broadcast journalist Roger Muntu said: “Let's pray for my friend and brother Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo who is undergoing treatment in Atlanta for a brain tumour, the NBA announced Saturday.”
American sportswriter Bob Ryan also lent his well wishes, saying: “I join in wishing the best for Dikembe Mutombo, a true humanitarian.”
Outside of basketball, the legend started the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation to help improve the living conditions in his home nation of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He also opened the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital in the Congolese capital of Kinshasha in 2007.
Topics: Basketball, NBA, US Sports
Jayden Collins