Dikembe Mutombo, a famous NBA player known for his incredible shot-blocking skills and kind humanitarian work, has died at the age of 58. The news was announced on the NBA’s social media account.
Mutombo, who was in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and served as the NBA’s Global Ambassador, passed away after fighting brain cancer. His family was with him when he died, according to a post on the NBA’s official Twitter account on September 30.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver shared a touching statement about Mutombo, praising his impact on the game and in the community. “Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” Silver said.
He also mentioned Mutombo’s success as one of the best shot blockers and defensive players in NBA history. “Off the court, he dedicated his time to helping others,” Silver added.
Silver talked about Mutombo’s work as the NBA’s first Global Ambassador and his humanitarian efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and throughout Africa. “I traveled the world with Dikembe and saw how his kindness and generosity uplifted people,” he noted.
Silver remembered Mutombo as always being friendly at NBA events, with his big smile, deep voice, and famous finger wag, which made him loved by basketball fans of all ages.
He expressed his condolences to Mutombo’s family, friends, and the global basketball community, emphasizing how much he was loved.
“Dikembe’s strong spirit lives on in those he helped and inspired throughout his amazing life. I am one of the many people whose lives were touched by Dikembe’s big heart, and I will miss him dearly,” Silver reflected.
Mutombo was not just a star athlete but also a loving husband to Rose and a proud father to their three children: Jean Jacques, Carrie, and Ryan.
He often expressed his love for Rose on social media. In a post for their 27th wedding anniversary in June 2021, he wrote, “We have been through so much together; good times and bad. We cherish all that we share. Life has taken us on many journeys, but you have always been with me through it all. Love always [sic].”
Mutombo also shared many travel experiences with Rose. In October 2022, he posted about their trip to Japan, saying, “Last week in Tokyo, Rose & I had a chance to visit the Garden of the Imperial Palace.” This would be his last post with his wife.
As a father, Mutombo often shared his pride in his children. In a Father’s Day post on Instagram in June 2022, he wrote, “Our children are our whole life and that causes a lot of admiration.”
He also shared a heartfelt message to other fathers: “I wish you spend a nice day with them. Keep showing them the good way to follow by being a great father. Happy Father’s Day to dads everywhere.”
After his father’s passing, Ryan shared an emotional tribute on his private Instagram account. He called his father his “hero,” not for his fame but for his genuine kindness. “He remains the purest heart I have ever known,” Ryan said.
Ryan described his father, saying, “At times, I thought of my dad as super-human. The child in me would sigh to hear that this was never actually the case. My dad was a regular man who would do anything to honor the world, its people, and its creator. He loved others with every ounce of his being. That’s what made him so real.”
Mutombo’s commitment to family, faith, and community was a key part of his life. On his 56th birthday in 2022, he shared a message of gratitude: “Dear Lord, I thank you for giving me the chance to wish myself a happy birthday in good health and happiness. I pray for my family and friends that You will continue to grant me blessings of love and joy all my life. Amen. Happy birthday to me [sic].”
Dikembe Mutombo’s death at 58 is a huge loss for basketball and humanitarian efforts. He inspired many as the NBA’s Global Ambassador. His legacy of love, kindness, and family will continue to inspire future generations.
Viral Photos Capture Father’s Hilarious Reaction to Partner Giving Birth
“Who says fathers have it easy during childbirth? Recent viral images of a couple welcoming their third child reveal that fathers can be deeply worried and often astounded by the delivery process.
In the past, fathers were barred from entering the delivery room, left to wait outside and hope for the best for both mother and child. Nowadays, dads are expected to witness the entire delivery, sometimes resulting in amusing reactions, as seen with Amanda Renee and her partner Brett Sillis.
The couple’s delivery room photos have touched many, not only because they welcomed their third baby, but also due to Brett’s priceless facial expressions.
While Brett’s reactions might seem like he is repulsed by the birthing process, Amanda assures he wasn’t. She didn’t notice her husband’s expressions during the overwhelming experience of childbirth. It wasn’t until they reviewed the photos later that they realized how funny Brett’s expressions were.
“We didn’t even look at them until I got back into the room, and I was like, ‘I have to post these,’” Amanda shared.
Now, the happy couple and their baby girl are home, enjoying time together and laughing at Brett’s delivery room expressions.
The photos resonated with many, especially men who related to Brett’s reactions, garnering over 6,000 shares.
“Dawg, this was me,” wrote one father.
“And this is exactly why when my husband wanted to ‘watch,’ I clamped my knees together and told him if he didn’t get up by my head, I wasn’t going to push!” shared one mother.
“Lol! I believe all men make these faces. My spouse could only look at my face after we delivered our baby six weeks ago. My labor lasted 15 minutes, and my doula had to tap him to get him to look at the baby because he was afraid he’d pass out from all the ‘stuff’ coming out. ‘Congratulations, mama!’” commented another.
Congratulations to the happy couple on their new family member!”
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