Remembering the Great Dikembe Mutombo!

Story By Mitchell Smith

Hello everybody today we look back at another great sports figure lost on September 30, 2024. Dikembe Mutombo was born in 1966 in the Republic of the Congo. Mutombo moved to the US at age 21 and enrolled at Georgetown University to become a doctor. It wasn’t long after that the basketball coaches took note of the 7’2” frame. He ended up playing 4 years for the Hoyas and was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in 1991.

He would play in the NBA till 2009. Mutombo coined is signature finger wag saying “Not in My House” when he would block a shot. His career was highlighted by several records set blocking shots. One of his most memorable victories came in the 93-94 season as 8th seed Denver took on the 1 seed Seattle SuperSonics. Down 0-2 Denver clawed their way back from the depths of disappointment and became the first 8th seed to beat a 1 seed in NBA playoffs. Mutombo grabbed the final rebound of the game as he fell to the floor clutching the ball in his hands. It was such a powerful image and I remember watching it live that year.

Mutombo would go on to do humanitarian work such as improving living conditions where he grew up in the Congo. Sadly Mutombo was over taken by brain cancer and he will forever be etched into the sports world as Mount Mutombo number 55. RIP Mr Mutombo.