Shannon Sharpe Shared Heartwarming Dikembe Mutombo Story On 'First Take'
Basketball legend Dikembe Mutombo passed away on Monday at the age of 58 following a battle with brain cancer.
A Hall of Fame center in his playing days, Mutombo was also known as a tremendous humanitarian. His infectious laugh and smile were trademarks and left a mark on anyone he met, including NFL legend and current ESPN personality Shannon Sharpe, who first got to know Mutombo when both were playing professionally in Denver.
On First Take this morning, Sharpe hilariously recalled how any time he saw Mutombo at the gym in Denver or later Atlanta, it meant his workout was over.
"I would see him all the time in the gym. Every time I would see him, Stephen A., your workout was done. Because the moment you saw him, if you were working out, you ain't doing no more workout, because he's going to talk to you for a good 30-45 minutes and ruin your workout," Sharpe joked.
Mutombo played in the NBA from 1991-2009, retiring as an eight-time All-Star and four-time Defensive Player of the Year.
His impact off the court was just as impressive.
"He was a guy that loved to talk. He was a great guy, funny guy. He was great. It's so tragic. My heart breaks for his family, friends and loved ones," Sharpe said Monday.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - AUGUST 22: Shannon Sharpe speaks onstage during the Nightcap Summer Sessions at Buckhead Theatre on August 22, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Julia Beverly/Getty Images)
Mutombo remained a beloved figure around the game of basketball long after his time on the court ended.
He will remain so even after his passing, leaving a legacy that will endure for decades.
