The NBA has announced the creation of the NBA Africa Dikembe Mutombo Humanitarian Award, an annual recognition to honor individuals or organizations working to advance health, education, or economic opportunity across the African continent.
This award is named after the late Dikembe Mutombo, a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, and global humanitarian.
The announcement was made by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver at the 10th annual NBA Africa All-Star Luncheon in San Francisco, California, as part of NBA All-Star 2025.
“Dikembe devoted his life to helping others and brought joy to so many people across Africa and around the world,” said Silver. “This new award and the basketball courts built in his name will honor Dikembe’s extraordinary legacy as a global humanitarian.”
The inaugural award will be presented at next year’s luncheon, with the recipient receiving a financial grant to support their ongoing humanitarian efforts and a donation from NBA Africa to a charity of their choice.
Court Initiative to Honor Mutombo’s Legacy
In addition to the award, NBA Africa announced its commitment to donating 55 basketball courts to communities across Africa, paying tribute to Mutombo’s iconic jersey number.
The first of these courts will be constructed in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mutombo’s birthplace, where he first discovered his passion for basketball.
These courts will feature a distinctive design inspired by Mutombo and align with NBA Africa’s broader mission to build 1,000 courts across the continent over the next decade.
A Legacy Beyond Basketball
Dikembe Mutombo was not only an accomplished athlete but also a dedicated philanthropist. Over his 18-year NBA career, he became known as “Mount Mutombo” for his defensive prowess, ranking as the second-leading shot blocker in league history.
Off the court, he championed numerous causes, particularly in the fields of healthcare and education.
In 2007, Mutombo opened the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital in Kinshasa, named in memory of his mother. The hospital has since provided critical medical care to thousands of patients who previously lacked access to essential health services.
His charitable work earned him multiple accolades, including the U.S. President’s Service Award (2000), the John Thompson Jr. Legacy of a Dream Award (2010), and the Congressional Humanitarian Award (2013).
Mutombo passed away from brain cancer on September 30th at the age of 58, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and global impact.
The NBA Africa Dikembe Mutombo Humanitarian Award ensures his mission of giving back endures, continuing to inspire future generations to make a difference in their communities.
“Dikembe’s legacy reminds us all that basketball can be a bridge to a better future,” said Silver. “Through this award and these courts, we hope to empower more young people to dream big, just like Dikembe did.”
