Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, 56, is receiving treatment for a brain tumor as the NBA reveals the former center is in ‘great spirits’ and will receive ‘the best care possible’
NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo is receiving treatment for a brain tumor in Atlanta.
The NBA said that Mutombo is in ‘great spirits’ and will receive ‘the best care possible’ from a team of specialists.
‘Dikembe and his family ask for privacy during this time so they can focus on his care,’ the league said. ‘They are grateful for your prayers and good wishes.’
The full statement read: ‘NBA Global Ambassador and Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor.
‘He is receiving the best care possible from a collaborative team of specialists in Atlanta and is in great spirits as he begins treatment.
‘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.’
Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo is receiving treatment for a brain tumor in Atlanta
The 56-year-old played 18 seasons in the NBA and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015
Mutombo played 18 NBA seasons for the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets before retiring after the 2008-09 season.
He was the league’s top defensive player four times and played in eight All-Star games over 18 seasons. Mutombo ranks 17th in rebounds (12,359) and finished with 3,289 career blocks, second to Hakeem Olajuwon (3,830).
Mutombo followed most if his blocks with a playful wag of his right index finger, a gesture that became his enduring signature.
Mutombo followed most if his blocks with his signature move – a wag of his right index finger
The 56-year-old was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo before moving to the United States and playing college basketball at Georgetown University.
Following his playing career, Mutombo has served as an ambassador for the sport, particularly in the development of the Basketball Africa League, which completed its second season in May.
He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.