Rockets, Tilman Fertitta issue statements on death of NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo
Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, who played 18 seasons in the NBA and served as a global ambassador for the league after retiring, has died from brain cancer, the NBA announced Monday.
Mutombo was 58 years old.
Mutombo played five seasons with the Houston Rockets at the end of his career, from 2004-05 through 2008-09. As a defensive anchor backing up Yao Ming, he averaged 5.4 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 15.6 minutes per game with the Rockets.
After Monday’s announcement from the league, the Rockets and owner Tilman Fertitta issued a reaction statement to social media.
The statement from the team reads:
Today we mourn the loss of a true ambassador of our game, Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo. Dikembe spent 18 seasons in the NBA, including his final five as a Houston Rocket. His fun-loving personality and trademark finger-wagging endeared him to fans around the world, but Dikembe’s true impact was his passion for helping others. Our condolences go out to his loving family and friends.
The Fertitta statement reads:
On behalf of the Rockets organization, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Dikembe Mutombo, a true legend both on and off the court. Dikembe was beloved by the entire NBA community and his tireless humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark on our league. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Rose, and their children.
Mutombo started in place of the injured Yao during the 2008 NBA playoffs and averaged 3.8 points (61.5% FG), 6.5 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in 20.5 minutes per game.
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This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets, Tilman Fertitta issue statements on death of Dikembe Mutombo
