LOS ANGELES, Oct 1 — Dikembe Mutombo, the Congolese-American basketball legend and eight-time NBA All-Star, has passed away at the age of 58 after battling brain cancer, the league announced. 

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver remembered Mutombo as "larger than life," highlighting his exceptional defensive skills and humanitarian efforts. The 7-foot-2 Hall-of-Famer dedicated himself to improving conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, donating millions to build a hospital and receiving several humanitarian awards, including the US President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Mutombo, who played 18 seasons in the NBA, became famous for his shot-blocking prowess and signature finger wag—a gesture he used to assert his dominance on defense. Drafted by the Denver Nuggets in 1991, he played for several teams and finished his career with 3,289 blocks, second only to Hakeem Olajuwon.

Tributes poured in from the basketball community, including Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid, who honored Mutombo's impact both on and off the court. Embiid praised him as a role model and a figure who greatly benefited many through his charitable work. 

Sixers president Daryl Morey called him "a great human being" and noted Mutombo's profound impact on Africa and the NBA community.