Joel Embiid’s big surprise and 4 other standout moments from 76ers media day

3. Daryl Morey pays homage to former 76ers great

Before the Media Day frenzy, somber news hit the NBA as Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo passed away at 58 due to brain cancer. An eight-time All-Star and a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, he was among the most impactful players in the league, especially in the 90s.

Mutombo also played for the 76ers for one-and-a-half seasons, being a key player during the franchise’s last NBA Finals appearance in 2001. His passing was widely felt in the NBA, with players and coaches alike reflecting on his massive impact on and off the court, especially in advancing his causes in Africa.

Daryl Morey, team president of the 76ers, paused Media Day to commemorate Mutombo, who also played in Houston when he was starting out as an executive for the Rockets.

I knew him personally. We were together for many seasons in Houston. Obviously, very important to the Sixers franchise as well. There aren't many guys like him. … Obviously, his accomplishments on the court, we don't need to talk about too much, but just an amazing human being what he did off the court for Africa. Rest in peace, Dikembe.