NBA/ Denver pay tribute to basketball legend and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo

The Denver crowd honoured the memory of former Nuggets center Dikembe Mutombo with an emotional 55-second ovation, a nod to his iconic jersey number. Mutombo, who passed away on September 30 at the age of 58, left a legacy marked not only by his defensive prowess on the court but also by his deep humanitarian contributions.

During the first quarter of the game against the Thunder, the Nuggets franchise aired a tribute video while players and staff wore shirts emblazoned with Mutombo’s famous finger-wagging gesture, accompanied by the phrase, “Not in My House.”

Nuggets head coach Mike Malone shared heartfelt reflections on Mutombo’s impact: “I feel privileged to have known him, coached him, and spent time with him. He will be missed by so many.”

The Nuggets also painted Mutombo’s name and number 55 near the team bench, following the tradition of franchises like the Celtics and Warriors in honouring their legends.

Mutombo’s influence reaches far beyond basketball; he dedicated much of his life to philanthropy in Africa, particularly through building hospitals to serve underserved communities.

Coach Malone emphasized Mutombo’s profound legacy: “His impact goes well beyond the game. We expect those who achieve success to find ways to give back, to make life better for others.”

Dikembe Mutombo will be remembered as a global ambassador for the sport, an enduring symbol of compassion and leadership on and off the court.