Fans on social media remembered basketball great Dikembe Mutombo for his remarkable sense of humor after learning of his tragic passing at the age of 58.
Mutombo, a towering figure both on and off the basketball court, passed away Monday after battling brain cancer.
Celebrated for his defensive prowess, he was an eight-time NBA All-Star and four-time Defensive Player of the Year. Mutombo left behind a legacy as one of the greatest shotblockers in NBA history.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Mutombo was deeply respected for his humanitarian efforts, particularly through the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation. The organization aimed at improving conditions in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Mutombo though, transcended sports through his engaging personality and willingness to poke fun at things – even himself.
Dikembe Mutombo On Conan O’Brien
Following news of his passing, Dikembe Mutombo’s appearance on Late Night with Conan O’Brien was fondly remembered by fans for showcasing his personality beyond the basketball court.
During his visit, Mutombo engaged in humorous segments that highlighted his charismatic and fun-loving nature.
One of the standout moments from his appearance included his participation in a bit where he inhaled helium from a balloon and attempted a Curly impression. That’s Curly, of course, from the slapstick comedy the Three Stooges.
The segment on O’Brien’s show was cited by viewers and fans on social platforms as one of the funniest moments on Conan’s show.
Take a look for yourself…
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Don’t Forget The Geico Commercial
Aside from the appearance on late-night television, Dikembe Mutombo was also remembered for his fun-loving appearance in a Geico commercial.
The Geico commercial plays humorously on his reputation as one of basketball’s greatest shot blockers. Mutombo was seen blocking everyday activities with his signature finger wag.
In the ad, Mutombo delights in rejecting items like a tossed piece of paper, coins at a toll booth, and cereal in a grocery store, each time gleefully saying “Not in my house!”
That commercial alone sealed his reputation as just a fun-loving American sports hero.
In cities like Houston, Atlanta, and Philadelphia, where Mutombo played, local tributes and memorials have sprung up. Fans remember him today not only for his basketball prowess but his humanitarian efforts.
And his sense of humor. RIP Dikembe.
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