The NBA lost one of its all-time greats with the passing of Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, who died of brain cancer at the age of 57.
A dominant force on the court, Mutombo’s legendary shot-blocking prowess and humanitarian work left a lasting legacy that continues to resonate across the globe. But for Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr., the loss was deeply personal.
Jackson learned of Mutombo’s passing just moments before walking into a room of reporters for the Grizzlies’ annual media day on Monday. Visibly affected, his mood shifted to one of quiet reflection when asked about the NBA legend. Though he initially gave a brief, respectful response, Jackson later opened up about what Mutombo meant to him, both on and off the court.
“I’ve known Dikembe since I was very tiny. He had an impact on my life, especially his enthusiasm,” Jackson shared. “He is my dad’s [Jaren Jackson Sr.] roommate from Georgetown. He’s somebody that was in my corner before I was ever good at basketball.”
Mutombo, who starred at Georgetown University from 1988 to 1991, was renowned for his defensive dominance, earning the Big East Defensive Player of the Year award twice. Mutombo’s shot-blocking became so iconic during his collegiate years that Georgetown fans created the “Rejection Row” cheering section in his honor.
Jackson reminisced about the unique relationship they shared, with Mutombo offering both support and tough love: “He was always telling me how gifted I was when I was younger. I wasn’t gifted offensively as I am now. As I got older, he would always check up on me. Talk trash, curse me out—just himself. He would always give me advice in a loving way, and then flip and give you real advice that would really stick with me for life. He changed everyone’s life he was around.”
Mutombo entered the NBA in 1991 after graduating from Georgetown with degrees in linguistics and diplomacy, immediately establishing himself as one of the league’s premier defenders. Over a career that spanned 18 seasons with six teams—including the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, and Houston Rockets—Mutombo blocked 3,289 shots, the second-most in NBA history. His famous finger wag, delivered after each block, became his signature.
Beyond his on-court accolades, Mutombo’s life mission was to help others, particularly in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo. In 2007, he opened the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital in Kinshasa, which has provided vital healthcare services to thousands. “My thing is about fighting the mortality rate so we can allow the people to live longer,” Mutombo said in a 2016 interview.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver reflected on Mutombo’s legacy: “Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life. On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the court, he poured his heart and soul into helping others.”
For Jackson, the loss of such an influential figure is profound, not just because of Mutombo’s impact on basketball but because of his character and relentless humanitarian efforts. “Off the court, he’s a genius. This man was building schools all over the world,” Jackson added. “He’s not someone I just connected with because of defense—it’s really personal.”
Mutombo’s life, both as a basketball icon and a champion of global health, leaves a towering legacy that continues to inspire. His contributions to basketball and to humanity will be remembered by generations to come.
