reaction to the Death of Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, who died of brain cancer on Monday. He was 58.

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“I am deeply saddened by the news of Dikembe’s death. He was a defensive force on the court who changed the way basketball was played. But more importantly, Dikembe has truly changed the world and improved countless lives through his humanitarian work in Africa. I will especially miss his booming laugh. My condolences go out to his wife Rose, his children and his family.” — Basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan.

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“I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing firsthand how his generosity and compassion empowered people. Over the years, he’s always been available at NBA events, with his infectious smile, deep, booming voice and signature finger wag endearing him to basketball fans of every generation. Dikembe’s indomitable spirit lives on in those he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life. “I am one of the many people whose lives were touched by Dikembe’s big heart, and I will miss him greatly.” – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.

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“As a basketball player, he might have been the best defensive player to ever play in the NBA. I never saw (Bill) Russell play, but he had to be awfully good to be as good as Dikembe. As a coach you are very lucky when the best player is the one who works the hardest and plays by all the rules, which Dikembe did. But his legacy could be even greater because of the work he did off the field.” – Former Nuggets coach Dan Issel

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“Dikembe was not only great on the pitch but also a force off it, admired and loved by those who met him. His smile, values ​​and commitment to basketball and helping others will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this very difficult time. May he rest in peace.” — Basketball Hall of Famer Pau Gasol.

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“To be honest, I know him more for his commercials. That’s just how I grew up. I never got to watch him play. It just shows the impact he made, and not just on the pitch. I know he’s done a lot of work around the world and impacted everyone’s lives in different ways.” – Cleveland center Jarrett Allen, who announced Monday he wanted to bring back Mutombo’s finger-wagging celebration before being told the Hall of Famer died earlier in the day.

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“Like many around the world, my heart is deeply saddened by the loss of Atlanta Hawks legend and humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo. I am grateful for the opportunity to visit him and his wife Rose at their home last month and express the gratitude and pride that Atlantans and millions of people worldwide feel for such a truly good man. He’s not just a Hall of Famer – he’s irreplaceable. My prayers go out to his family and loved ones.” – Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.

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“It’s really hard to believe and it’s hard for us to cope without this guy.” – Masai Ujiri, president of the Toronto Raptors.

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“He loved others with every part of his being. That’s what made him so accessible. That made him real. Dikembe Mutombo was salt and light and today, September 30, 2024, he was called to rest. I love you, daddy. Be calm.” — Ryan Mutombo, Dikembe Mutombo’s son.

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“I was lucky enough to be able to call him a friend. My family and I were extremely proud to have him represent the Hawks organization on and off the field. With his jersey in the rafters, his life and legacy will always be remembered in Atlanta.” – Hawks principal owner Tony Ressler.

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“You have paved the way for me and many Congolese and African youth with your legendary basketball career and your charitable actions. You are an NBA legend and an African icon and that will inspire many generations to come.” — Former NBA player Serge Ibaka.

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“Georgetown has lost one of its best in Dikembe Mutombo. Basketball fans remember him for his defense, rebounding and trademark finger-wagging, but those of us who knew him well will miss the father, teammate, mentor and friend. Dikembe left his mark on the Georgetown community in many ways, but he will be remembered most for his unique ability to use his platform as a Hall of Fame basketball player to maximize his global impact as a humanitarian.” – Georgetown athletic director Lee Reed.

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“Doing what he did – has done – is hard on everyone. It’s hard for the world. Being a fan of his and then having the opportunity to play with him gives me a different perspective as a friend. Hard day. but he will watch over us.” – 76ers guard Kyle Lowry.

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“Dikembe was loved by the entire NBA community and his tireless humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark on our league.” – Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta.

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“I knew him to be a true humanitarian. … I will love and miss him terribly.” – Cindy McCain, widow of the late U.S. Senator John McCain.

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“He was one of the nicest guys in the world and had such a big heart. He truly wanted to help as many people in the world as he could. He just had a wonderful charisma.” — former NBA player Etan Thomas.

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AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba