Dikembe Mutombo dead aged 58: Tributes pour in for NBA Hall of Fame legend after death following brain cancer

FORMER NBA star Dikembe Mutombo has died at the age of 58.

The Hall of Famer, who stood at 7ft 2in, passed away after a brave battle against brain cancer.

Mutombo spent 18 years playing in the NBA for some of the top teams.

And tributes have poured in for the legend, who also made eight all-star appearances and is widely considered to be one of basketball's best-ever defensive players.

A statement from NBA commissioner Adam Silver read: “Kiembe Mutombo was simply larger than life.

“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. There was nobody more qualified than Dikembe to serve as the NBA’s first Global Ambassador.

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

“I had the privilege of travelling 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 booking voice and signature finger wag that endeared him to basketball fans of every generation.

“Dikembe’s indomitable spirit continues on in those who 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 dearly.

“On behalf of the entire NBA family, I send my deepest condolences to Dikembe’s wife, Rose, and their children; his many friends; and the global basketball community which he truly loved and which loved him back.”

Mutombo's amazing career started in 1991 with the Denver Nuggets.

After that, he had spells with the Atlanta Hawks, the Philadelphia 76ers, the New Jersey Nets and the New York Knicks.

Mutombo ended his career with the Houston Rockets in 2009.

And although he never won a Championship, Mutombo made no less than eight All-Star appearances.

He was also crowned Defensive Player of the Year on four separate occassions.

And after retiring, Mutombo moved into humanitarian work.

Tributes have now poured in from around the world of basketball.

One fan said: "RIP to a legend."

Another declared: "Extremely sad stuff, truly a GOAT."

One noted: "I'm heartbroken to hear about Dikembe Mutombo's passing. His impact on and off the court was immense, and he truly made a difference in the lives of so many."

Another added: "Very sad. May his soul rest peacefully. Amen. Dike Mutombo was a defensive general on the floor."