Dikembe Mutombo has died at the age of 58 after a battle with brain cancer.

The 7-foot-2 center was one of the most feared shot-blockers in NBA history, winning Defensive Player of the Year four times in his 18-year career, and ranking second-all time in career blocks behind Hakeem Olajuwon.

Mutombo’s influence went beyond the basketball court – he spent his post-playing career as an ambassador for the NBA and the sport of basketball in his home continent of Africa. He also focused on charity efforts through his Dikembe Mutombo Foundation and organizations like the CDC Foundation, UNICEF, and the Special Olympics.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver wrote “Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life… with his infectious smile, deep booming voice and signature finger wag that endeared him to basketball fans of every generation.”