Dikembe Mutombo's brilliant 18-year NBA career came to an end last night when the blocked-shot enthusiast suffered a gruesome injury in Game 2 of an opening round playoff series against the Portland Trail Blazers.This morning, sportswriters are paying homage to the longtime veteran, both for his prowess on the court and his altruistic efforts off of it.
In praise of Dikembe Mutombo, one of the all-time greats (Houston Chronicle)
Dikembe Mutombo Foundation (DMF)
After watching the video several times it is apparent Mutombo suffered nothing more than a knee sprain. It's doubtful he will need surgery. Mutombo got the perfect excuse to bow out of the NBA and still collect big fat paydays for the remainder of his contract.
Great all-around player, excellent defender, and an even better person. A real class act, and a fixture in the NBA for decades. We all knew it had to end sometime, but I don't think anyone wanted to see it end like this (especially, with everything Houston had to overcome this season). Best of luck, Big D. You'll be a part of my childhood memories forever.
BTW, I firmly believe that if he wanted to, he could rehab and play into his late 80s.
mrogi,
is that your medical opinion?
besides if he was carried out, then it must have been for a good reason, not a phony one like paul pierce's.
In response to mrogi, "After watching the video several times it is apparent Mutombo suffered nothing more than a knee sprain. It's doubtful he will need surgery. Mutombo got the perfect excuse to bow out of the NBA and still collect big fat paydays for the remainder of his contract." How brilliant you are Dr. mrogi, able to diagnose by watching a video. I'm sure you are right, he's only doing this to sit out the rest of the playoffs, since that's how long his contract has left on it. Brilliant.
Dikembe clearly has it down on the PDX Blazers!
Mrogi - MRI shows a tear in the knee requiring surgery.
Take back your filthy words.