The Georgetown community is in mourning following the death of Dikembe Mutombo (C’91), who died on September 30 at 58 after battling brain cancer. A celebrated player on the men’s basketball team and a distinguished NBA Hall of Famer, Mutombo dedicated much of his life to philanthropy and humanitarian efforts for those in need.
“Dikembe Mutombo represented the true spirit of Georgetown,” remarked Joseph Ferrara, vice president and chief of staff to President John J. DeGioia. “His remarkable careers in college and professional basketball, along with his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others, reflect Georgetown’s values, which we will cherish with pride.”
Ferrara added that Mutombo’s death is a significant loss not only for the Georgetown community but also for the United States, Congo, and all the lives he impacted. He extended condolences to Mutombo’s family, friends, teammates, and all who cherished him.
Throughout his life, Mutombo maintained strong ties to Georgetown, notably serving on the university’s Board of Directors.
“Dikembe’s legacy of global service included his time at Georgetown, where he served on our Board of Directors from 2017 to 2023,” said Board Chair Tom Reynolds (B’74). “His contributions were marked by his expansive humanity and global perspective, leaving an indelible mark on Georgetown as a student, athlete, alumnus, and leader. We are thankful for his service and extend our heartfelt condolences to Rose and his children.”
During his three seasons at Georgetown, Mutombo earned All-Big East honors twice and was named the Big East Defensive Player of the Year two times. He helped his team secure one Big East regular season title and the 1989 Big East Tournament championship.
Following his college career, Mutombo gained fame for his defensive abilities during his 18 years in the NBA, earning four NBA Defensive Player of the Year Awards and being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.
After retiring, Mutombo devoted himself to advocacy, particularly focusing on improving access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for those in need. He established the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation in 1997, aiming to enhance health, education, and quality of life in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In 2007, the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital, named in honor of his mother, was inaugurated and has since provided care to nearly 200,000 individuals.
His service extended to various boards, including the National Constitution Center, Special Olympics International, the CDC Foundation, and the National Board for the U.S. Fund for UNICEF.
In 2002, Mutombo was honored with Georgetown’s inaugural Samuel A. Halsey Jr. award for Black alumni committed to service. He received an honorary degree from Georgetown in 2010 and was awarded the John Thompson Jr. Legacy of a Dream Award that same year. In 2013, he was presented with the Timothy S. Healy, S.J. Award for his exceptional community service and humanitarian efforts.