Thank you. When I was an NBA rookie, someone asked me what I thought my career would be like. I never dream it will include this.
I'm so honored to be in the Basketball Hall of Fame. I only want to be remembered as one of the best defensive player to ever play this game.
I'd like to think that I have accomplished that. The gentleman on my right means so much to me. Coach John Thompson.
I learned a lot under coach Thompson. I learned about the game of basketball, but most importantly, I learned how to be a man in this society. He's really a father figure to all of us who got a chance to play for him at the Georgetown University.
David Stern, I want to thank David for the NBA global vision, of not only growing the game, but they lead commitment to improve communities all over around the world, as we call it NBA Cares.
I also want to thank him for the opportunity to carry out my life mission, as the NBA Global Ambassador, which I'm continued to do under the Commissioner Adam Silver.
The NBA support in our home continent of Africa, means a great deal to me and to see current and former players like Hakeem Olajuwon, and coaches, giving back and making a difference in the people's lives.
I give God the glory for blessing me and surrounding me with so many wonderful people. This is including, first of all, my parents: Samuel Mutombo, who left us two years ago,
and my mother, Biamba Marie Mutombo, who inspired me to look at the world with love and kindness. I wish they have a chance to see their son becoming Hall of Famer.
As you saw in the video, I've worn many uniforms. From the Denver, I want to thank my former coaches.
