NBA Africa to Build 55 Courts in DR Congo Honouring Dikembe Mutombo

NBA Africa is honouring one of basketball's greatest humanitarians in a fitting way: 55 basketball courts across the Democratic Republic of Congo. The league's African arm has partnered with Quest Water Global on a multi-year project to build or renovate 55 full-size and 3-on-3 courts across the country by 2030, celebrating the legacy of Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo.

The first court was unveiled last week at Cercle Onatra in Kinshasa — the very place where Mutombo began his basketball journey before moving to the United States. His iconic No. 55 jersey number sits at center court, and the venue is expected to serve thousands of local youth each year. NBA Africa marked the occasion with a Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA clinic for 80 local coaches. A second court will open in Mutombo's hometown of Mbuji-Mayi in the coming weeks.

Mutombo, the eight-time All-Star famous for his finger wag and shot-blocking, died in September 2024 aged 58 after a battle with brain cancer. Beyond his playing career, he was one of sport's most celebrated philanthropists, building a hospital in Kinshasa. The court project ensures his impact on Congolese basketball will be felt for generations.