DENVER — A heartfelt video tribute paying homage to Dikembe Mutombo’s significant contributions both on and off the basketball court unfolded at the Denver Nuggets season opener against Oklahoma City. As part of the ceremony, Nuggets fans rose to their feet and honored him with a 55-second applause, signifying his jersey number.
The franchise took time to remember the late Mutombo during the first quarter of the game. Players and coaching staff honored him by donning T-shirts featuring the memorable image of his signature finger wag.
Mutombo, a Hall of Famer widely celebrated for his joyous demeanor, distinctive voice, and, of course, that iconic finger wag, succumbed to brain cancer last month at the age of 58.
“I feel really fortunate to have gotten to know him and coach him, as well as spend some quality time together,” remarked Nuggets head coach Michael Malone, who also had Mutombo’s name along with “55” printed on the court near the team’s bench. “He will be dearly missed by countless individuals.”
During his remarkable career, Mutombo played a crucial role in propelling the Nuggets into history as the first No. 8 seed to beat a No. 1 seed in the NBA playoffs — a memorable series win against Seattle in 1994, noted for Mutombo lying on the court floor with the ball raised triumphantly above his head, exuding joy when the buzzer rang.
This cherished moment remains framed in Malone’s office.
After a noteworthy collegiate career at Georgetown, Mutombo was drafted fourth overall by the Nuggets in 1991. He spent five impressive years in Denver, quickly becoming a beloved figure among the fans.
In addition to the Nuggets, Mutombo’s 18-year NBA journey included teams like Atlanta, Houston, Philadelphia, New York, and New Jersey. Standing tall at 7 feet 2 inches, he earned eight All-Star selections, was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year four times, and received All-NBA honors three times. His impactful career culminated in his 2015 induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame, during which he averaged 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game and ranks second in career blocks in the history of the NBA.
Beyond basketball, he was renowned for his philanthropy. Mutombo founded a hospital in the Congo, honoring his mother, which has since provided care to approximately 200,000 people. His advocacy extended to organizations like the Special Olympics, UNICEF, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“His influence stretches far beyond what he accomplished on the court,” Malone stated. “It encompasses the incredible work he did for his home country through initiatives like building hospitals and giving back to the community.”
“That’s the kind of legacy we wish to see — individuals who find ways to assist others once they achieve their goals. Dikembe Mutombo will forever be remembered as a distinguished ambassador of this sport, both on and off the court, driven by an immense heart.”