The Denver Nuggets issued the following statement on the passing of Dikembe Motumbo:
The Nuggets organization is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Denver Nuggets legend and NBA icon Dikembe Mutombo. Dikembe came into his own as a Nuggets draft pick and one of the most memorable moments in our franchise’s history will forever be tied to Mount Mutombo and the image of him crying tears of joy after upsetting the number-one-seeded Seattle SuperSonics in 1994.
Dikembe is one of the most unique and beloved players to ever step foot on a basketball court. The work and efforts he put in off the court to give back to his home country, Africa, and the NBA cities that loved him were just as extraordinary.
Words cannot express how much the Nuggets and NBA community will miss Dikembe, but his memory and impact will certainly never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with all of his family and loved ones during this difficult time.