The death of Dikembe Mutombo sparks outrage in the NBA world

Toronto Raptors president Masi Ujiri had already finished speaking to reporters for NBA media day and was returning when he learned of the death of Dikembe Mutombo on Monday morning. But then he almost couldn't finish what he wanted to say.

“It's really hard to believe and we're having a hard time coping without this guy. You have no idea what Dikembe Mutombo meant to me,” Ujiri said, wiping tears from his eyes and pausing for a few moments. “I'm sorry, it's a difficult question. I have to say though, this guy made us who we are. This guy is a giant, an incredible person.”

The NBA lost a beloved figure when Mutombo, a Hall of Fame center and tireless humanitarian, died of brain cancer at age 58. The league announced the news as 28 of its teams began conducting interviews with reporters in their respective cities on media day. So Mutombo's memory became part of the conversation, along with any other storylines that could play out during the 2024-25 NBA season.

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Mutombo is known for his signature “Finger Wag” celebration on the blocks during games and his off-field efforts to improve the quality of life and health in his home Republic of Congo and at the Special Olympics. Mutombo was celebrated for his competitive fire and kindness and his influence on the growth of the sport in Africa.