NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo has died aged 58

NBA legend and Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo has sadly passed away at the age of 58.

Dikembe Mutombo has died aged 58. Credit: Marcus Ingram / Getty

The heartbreaking news was confirmed by NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who shared a touching tribute to the 8-time NBA All-Star and 4-time Defensive Player of the Year on social media.

"Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life," Silver said in his tribute. "On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others."

Mutombo tragically passed away following a battle with brain cancer - he was reportedly surrounded by family.

Mutombo was the first NBA Global Ambassador. Credit: Otto Greule Jr / Getty

Honoring the life of the NBA's first Global Ambassafor, Silver continued: "There was nobody more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA's first Global Ambassador.

"He was a humanitarian at his core. He loved what the game of basketball could do to make a positive impact on communities, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the continent of Africa.

"I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people. 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."

Mutombo played 18 NBA seasons, donning the jerseys of the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets.

He retired from the NBA following the 2008-09 season.

Our thoughts go out to Mutombo's family, friends, and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Otto Greule Jr / Getty