NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo has died at the age of 58.

“NBA Global Ambassador and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo passed away today at the age of 58 from brain cancer,” the NBA said in a statement on X on Monday, Sept. 30. “He was surrounded by his family.”

Commissioner Adam Silver shared a statement on Monday as well, calling Mutombo — who was known for his signature “finger wag” and was the NBA’s first Global Ambassador — “simply larger than life.”

“On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA,” Silver continued. “Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others. There was nobody more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA’s first Global Ambassador. He was a humanitarian at his core.”

Silver’s statement said that Mutombo — who still holds the second-most all-time number of blocks in league history — “loved what the game of basketball could do to make a positive impact on communities,” namely in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where Mutombo was from.

“I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people,” Silver shared in the statement. “He was always accessible at NBA events over the years – with his infectious smile, deep booming voice and signature finger wag that endeared him to basketball fans of every generation.”

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“Dikembe’s indomitable spirit continues on in those who he helped and inspired throughout his extraordinary life,” Silver continued. “I am one of the many people whose lives were touched by Dikembe’s big heart and I will miss him dearly.”

Concluding his statement, Silver offered his “deepest condolences” to Mutombo’s wife Rose and their three children, as well as Mutombo’s “many friends” and the “global basketball community.”

Mutombo was drafted in 1991 with as the fourth overall pick by the Denver Nuggets. Over 18 seasons, he went on to play for the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets during his career.

Mutombo was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2022. After revealing his diagnosis, he received an outpouring of support from other notable retired players.

“Thinking of Dikembe today! F cancer,” wrote George Karl, former NBA player and head coach. “Dikembe Mutombo is the best of us…” Phoenix Suns alum Rex Chapman posted. “Praying for a full and speedy recovery, dear Dikembe. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,” wrote six-time NBA All-Star Pau Gasol.