In a long-overdue tribute to one of basketball’s greatest figures, the NBA has announced the creation of the NBA Africa Dikembe Mutombo Humanitarian Award, an annual honor recognizing individuals or organizations dedicated to advancing health, education, or economic opportunities across Africa.
The award is named after the late Dikembe Mutombo, a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, and the league’s first global ambassador.
Known for his towering presence on the court and his unwavering humanitarian efforts off it, Mutombo’s legacy continues to inspire generations beyond basketball.
During the announcement at the 10th annual NBA Africa All-Star Luncheon in San Francisco, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also unveiled an ambitious initiative to build 55 basketball courts across Africa in honor of Mutombo and his iconic jersey number. The project will begin in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where Mutombo first discovered his passion for the game, and contributes to NBA Africa’s long-term goal of constructing 1,000 courts on the continent over the next decade.
“Dikembe devoted his life to helping others and brought joy to so many people across Africa and around the world,” Silver stated. “This new award and the basketball courts built in his name will honor Dikembe’s extraordinary legacy as a global humanitarian.”
The inaugural NBA Africa Dikembe Mutombo Humanitarian Award will be presented at next year’s luncheon, with recipients receiving a financial grant to further their philanthropic initiatives, along with an additional donation from NBA Africa to a charity of their choice.
Throughout the event, speakers reflected on Mutombo’s impact both on and off the court. The Congolese legend was not only a defensive powerhouse—earning eight NBA All-Star selections and ranking as the second-leading shot blocker in NBA history—but also a beacon of humanitarianism. His philanthropic work earned him numerous accolades, including the U.S. President’s Service Award (2000), the Laureus World Sports Award (2010), and the Congressional Humanitarian Award (2013).
One of his most significant contributions to Africa was the construction of the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital in Kinshasa, named after his late mother. Opened in 2007, the hospital has since provided medical services to thousands in the region, cementing Mutombo’s legacy beyond basketball.
During the luncheon, Congolese musician Fally Ipupa paid tribute to his fellow countryman with a rousing musical performance, adding a symbolic and heartfelt touch to the occasion.
Selected fourth overall in the 1991 NBA Draft, Mutombo spent 18 seasons in the NBA, revolutionizing the art of defense and becoming an inspiration for young African athletes. His legacy now lives on through this new award, ensuring that his lifelong commitment to giving back continues to uplift communities across Africa.
