“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said. “On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others.

Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo died Monday from brain cancer. The Congolese American earned eight-time All-Star selections and was named the NBA's defensive player of the year four times during his pro career.

He was a defensive force on the court who changed the way the game of basketball is played. But more importantly, Dikembe truly changed the world and improved countless lives through his humanitarian work in Africa.