Hawks star Dikembe Mutombo dies of brain cancer

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement:

“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life. On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in NBA history. Off the floor, he devoted his whole heart to helping others.

“No one was more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA’s first global ambassador. At his core, he was a humanitarian. He loved the positive impact the game of basketball could have on communities, particularly in his homeland, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and throughout the African continent. I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing firsthand how his generosity and compassion empowered people. Over the years, he was always available at NBA events with his infectious smile, deep, booming voice and signature finger wag that endeared 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 greatly. On behalf of the entire NBA family, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Dikembe's wife, Rose, and their children. his many friends; and the global basketball community that he truly loved and that loved him back.”

There's more to come