Should the Spurs sign Mutombo?

[venitian navigator]

Just red on hoopshype that Mutombo is ready to play...and Houston didn't answer him. So he's loking at options, spurs included.
I think it could be a very good player for us in limited minutes...that could revive for stretches the "duncan/Robinson era".
Thoughts ?

[BruceBowenFan]

No.

[Chris]

Only if he signs cheap. We could definitely use him for rebounds come playoff time. We need more depth at center and he could possibly fill the void.

[raspsa]

Sure, why not? He can provide shotblocking and rebounding. Should come cheap. Spurs won't have to play him every game but he can make an impact.

[Fattmac78]

I want any1 who can rebound and block a shot who aint scared to go up with anybody. Our bigs get nervous against Shaq, Dirk, an Gasul(however you spell his name) :bking

[honestfool84]

I want any1 who can rebound and block a shot who aint scared to go up with anybody. Our bigs get nervous against Shaq, Dirk, an Gasul(however you sprll his name)



it's spelled 'Gasol', and it's not 'sprll', either, it's 'spell'. and it's 'anyone', and it's 'isn't', not 'aint', not to mention the lack of punctuation.

[Fattmac78]

An who are you to me? Nobody, but a internet thug that like to cut people down. You havent said anything on the topic at hand. Get a life Cuzz! :nope

[Manufan909]

An who are you to me? Nobody, but a internet thug that like to cut people down. You havent said anything on the topic at hand. Get a life Cuzz! :nope

Sorry dude, but you lost all cred when you implied Gasol actually makes anyone nervous.

[Chieflion]

Tim Duncan should do the Shaq imitation.
"Come to the Spurs, come get the ring you deserve." Mutumbo will sign for the minimum, hopefully.

[honestfool84]

An who are you to me? Nobody, but a internet thug that like to cut people down. You havent said anything on the topic at hand. Get a life Cuzz! :nope

thug?

:lmao

i didn't address the topic because im not going to make the decision to bring him or not.

you seem to think spurstalk decides to either sign someone, or not.

[hoopdreams11]

I would think out of the centers that are free agents the spurs would choose Mourning first and Mutumbo second.

[Indazone]

As badly as the Rockets need bigs, I can't understand why Morey hasn't signed him? He says he will be going to the Celtics.

[spurs_fan_in_exile]

He'd be worth a look if KT can't get stay healthy, but I don't have any idea how to clear up roster space for him without pulling some sort of trade. If they were to sign him and waive one of the guys in Austin they'd still have to send Ian back to the Toros to open up an active roster spot and the Spurs would be without any athleticism at all up front. Basically the only way to make it work is deal or waive a big and I don't know that we've got anyone any other team wants.

[peskypesky]

I'd love to get Mutumbo. He's old and decrepit, so he's a perfect Spurs pickup.

But seriously, if he's willing to sign for not a lot of money, his shotblocking and rebounding could be of use in a pinch. I didn't see him play last year...did he have anything left?

[peskypesky]

Do the Rockets even have a backup for Yao? I don't see another center on their roster. What do they do when Yao is on the bench?

[Indazone]

The Rockets play Chuck Hayes when Yao is on the bench. 6'6" of man center.:depressed

Rockets should do a two for one trade. Clear a roster spot and bring Deke in. Dorsey sucks, and Wafer and Head are clearly trade bait. Bring in another Big man and also sign Deke.

[completely deck]

I'm shaking my finger just like he would. :nope

[tp2021]

I'm shaking my finger just like he would. :nope

I see what you did there! :tu

[Spur-Addict]

You know you want to, come oooooonnnnnnn....It's him, remember?

http://media.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/content/img/photos/2007/12/20/431927453_t220.jpg

[bigfan]

We'd be better off bringing back Artis Gilmor.

[ClingingMars]

I see what you did there! :tu

[justanotherspursfan]

He'd be worth a look if KT can't get stay healthy, but I don't have any idea how to clear up roster space for him without pulling some sort of trade. If they were to sign him and waive one of the guys in Austin they'd still have to send Ian back to the Toros to open up an active roster spot and the Spurs would be without any athleticism at all up front. Basically the only way to make it work is deal or waive a big and I don't know that we've got anyone any other team wants.

Well, assuming Ahearn gets cuts and Vaughn gets the street clothes when we're ready to activate Ian, I would imagine if we were also to pick up Mutumbo, we'd stop leaving KT active (edit: or alternate activating them).

If Ian's ready to play, Mutumbo mainly just gets garbage time and situational minutes depending on matchups. If Ian isn't ready to get minutes anyway, we might see a little more Deke, but he's still behind Matt and Fab in the big man rotation.

I don't think we would ever want to play him a lot, but he might be a nice guy to have available at the end of the bench for matchups where we just need another big dude.

[ClingingMars]

He's always seemed like a great guy, especially with all his off the court contributions - why not get him a ring? ;)

-Mars

[tp2021]

He's always seemed like a great guy, especially with all his off the court contributions - why not get him a ring? ;)

-Mars

+1

Plus, who wouldn't want to see him give the finger shake as a Spur? You know he still has some blocks in him.

[urunobili]

I'd be happy to welcome him as a spur... and it could become the ring for Mutombo run...

[Mr. Body]

Who wants to sex Mutombo?

[timvp]

My initial reaction is no. But then considering that the Spurs are 27th in the league in blocks and the fact that the team may have given up on Mahinmi to contribute this season, maybe it's not so crazy. Here's the excerpt from the Boston Globe:


The 7-foot-2-inch, 260-pound center said last week he hopes to sign with a team after spending Christmas with his family in Atlanta. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year said among the teams that have shown interest are Boston, San Antonio, and Miami. The former Rocket also said Houston has "not answered me." The 42-year-old, who has blocked 3,278 shots during his 17-year career, said he is in "good shape" from working out three hours a day with spinning classes, yoga, and weightlifting.

"You'll see me in the next two weeks," Mutombo said. "I will be somewhere. I really need to go back to playing. I've just got to make sure that I go to a place where I can be happy. There are about four to five teams that I've been looking at and about seven teams that have shown interest. It's up to me to make my decision."

[tp2021]

My initial reaction is no. But then considering that the Spurs are 27th in the league in blocks and the fact that the team may have given up on Mahinmi to contribute this season, maybe it's not so crazy. Here's the excerpt from the Boston Globe:
The 7-foot-2-inch, 260-pound center said last week he hopes to sign with a team after spending Christmas with his family in Atlanta. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year said among the teams that have shown interest are Boston, San Antonio, and Miami. The former Rocket also said Houston has "not answered me." The 42-year-old, who has blocked 3,278 shots during his 17-year career, said he is in "good shape" from working out three hours a day with spinning classes, yoga, and weightlifting.

"You'll see me in the next two weeks," Mutombo said. "I will be somewhere. I really need to go back to playing. I've just got to make sure that I go to a place where I can be happy. There are about four to five teams that I've been looking at and about seven teams that have shown interest. It's up to me to make my decision."

Well, if the player is making the decision, he isn't coming to the Spurs, history is telling me. But at this point I've learned to ignore it until an announcement is made.

[ClingingMars]

Who wants to sex Mutombo?

:lmao

-Mars

[Indazone]

dammit, we need to sign his ass now. I think we can move Head's weak ass contract for someone like Etan Thomas or Lorenzen Wright. Those guys are second tier centers but enough for a few minutes backing up Yao. Actually need a guy who is a combo C/F 7 footer. Then bring Deke in to fill out the roster.

Ship Head out and give them Von Wafer to sweeten the deal. Rockets have too many guards.

[Juanobili]

If I were him, I'd go to Boston

with SA being the second choice

[Indazone]

Have to agree. Mutumbo's best chance for a ring is with the Celtics.

[Indazone]

December 14, 2008

Not done

Once Dikembe Mutombo passes out his gifts, he hopes to return to the NBA for a final season, possibly with the Celtics.

The 7-foot-2-inch, 260-pound center said last week he hopes to sign with a team after spending Christmas with his family in Atlanta. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year said among the teams that have shown interest are Boston, San Antonio, and Miami. The former Rocket also said Houston has "not answered me." The 42-year-old, who has blocked 3,278 shots during his 17-year career, said he is in "good shape" from working out three hours a day with spinning classes, yoga, and weightlifting.

"You'll see me in the next two weeks," Mutombo said. "I will be somewhere. I really need to go back to playing. I've just got to make sure that I go to a place where I can be happy. There are about four to five teams that I've been looking at and about seven teams that have shown interest. It's up to me to make my decision."

The Celtics have the maximum 15 players and would have to waive one to make room for Mutombo. While Boston's starting center spot is solidified with Kendrick Perkins, his backups include seldom-used Patrick O'Bryant and undersized Leon Powe and Glen Davis. The Celtics have not replaced the veteran experience and length that free agent P.J. Brown brought late last season and have interest in Mutombo, but have not offered him a contract.

"The way Boston is playing right now with [Kevin Garnett], Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen, the team is heading in a direction toward winning another championship," Mutombo said. "It will be interesting if I made the decision to go there. It would be very good. I've been to the Finals twice [with Philadelphia and New Jersey]. I got close, but I walked away empty-handed. Maybe going to Boston would give me a chance to win.

"I would love to play until July and then retire after this season," added the eight-time All-Star. "My plan is to play this season. If my mind is set to play basketball, why not?"

The Dikembe Mutombo Foundation also recently announced its drive to gain donations by allowing contributions through text messaging. Founded in 1997, the foundation is attempting to eradicate many childhood diseases in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By text-messaging "Congo" to 90999, one can send a $5 donation to the foundation that will be charged to his or her cellphone bill.

[NuGGeTs-FaN]

ummmmm he is coming back to the Nuggets, book it :smokin

:lol ok i'm not serious but it would be awesome to bring him back to his second home :clap

[Tully365]

thug?

:lmao

i didn't address the topic because im not going to make the decision to bring him or not.

you seem to think spurstalk decides to either sign someone, or not.

Why do you always do this? This is a basketball forum-- the whole point is to talk about basketball. You being the unfriendly neighborhood naysayer doesn't really add much to the process.

[ClingingMars]

The Dikembe Mutombo Foundation also recently announced its drive to gain donations by allowing contributions through text messaging. Founded in 1997, the foundation is attempting to eradicate many childhood diseases in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By text-messaging "Congo" to 90999, one can send a $5 donation to the foundation that will be charged to his or her cellphone bill.

like i said before, the guy is classy. Holt, get to work!

-Mars

[Tully365]

I'd rather the Spurs sign Courtney Sims from the D-league for the minimum.

http://www.nba.com/dleague/playerfile/index.jsp?player=courtney_sims

[duncan228]

:)

nYlm0LrIG60

[Bruno]

Easily no. Too old and too slow.

[benefactor]

I'd rather the Spurs sign Courtney Sims from the D-league for the minimum.

http://www.nba.com/dleague/playerfile/index.jsp?player=courtney_sims
+1

[carib]

it's spelled 'Gasol', and it's not 'sprll', either, it's 'spell'. and it's 'anyone', and it's 'isn't', not 'aint', not to mention the lack of punctuation.

you need a burst

[Avitus1]

Nope.

[hater]

"Rockets won't sign him"

think about that for a minute.

[Biggems]

im all for Sims

[BlackBellamy]

Bring Moses Malone back.

[Man In Black]

+1
All I know is Sims doesn't have not 1 placement on an ALL-NBA D Team.

If Deke and his beak wanna sign for minimum...I say wear Silver & Black.:flag:

[xtremesteven33]

Id rather have Alonzo than Deke. But having Deke wouldnt be bad either. Hes a great defensive player and we could use him in special cases. I dont see Bonner giving up his starting spot any time soon, but i just truly believe Oberto will be back in the starting lineup and Bonner will be Duncans back up.

Having Deke sub for Oberto would be good IMO. Spurs need length in the defense when we play bigger teams (LA,PHX,HOUSTON,PORTLAND)

im all for it if its for the cheap.:tu

[honestfool84]

you need a burst

http://www.sugarstand.com/images/sc/sc0114b.jpg?

[kaji157]

A player i respect a lot, seems that he´ll be welcomed here, if he comes i think he´ll add a grain of sand to our championship hopes.

[Austin_Toros]

why the hell would we want another old guy?
it would be a terrible move, especially considering we want mahinmi to actually play.

[peskypesky]

I'd rather the Spurs sign Courtney Sims from the D-league for the minimum.

http://www.nba.com/dleague/playerfile/index.jsp?player=courtney_sims

Damn!!! 4.6 blocks per game???? Am I reading that correctly?

Sign him!!!

[Man In Black]

It's old guy with skills who actually gives a damn about D. I want Ian to get time but I want a title more. Since my bet was 20-1...I would prefer as solid a d as possible. Deke is a known quantity & Ian is a wildcard.

[SenorSpur]

We'd be better off bringing back Artis Gilmor.

My man. Giving a shout out to my man - AG!

[SenorSpur]

I'd rather the Spurs sign Courtney Sims from the D-league for the minimum.

http://www.nba.com/dleague/playerfile/index.jsp?player=courtney_sims

Sims looks very frail.

I'm that last person that wants the Spurs to sign yet another old guy, but really I believe Mutumbo could pay dividends against the bigger frontlines of the Western Conference. I wouldn't have a probably with him at all.

Whether it be Sims or Deke, just get another big on his roster.

[Allanon]

It worries me that the Rockets haven't even responded to Deke yet. They need some size badly. I think Yao and Scola are their 2 biggest players and then everybody else is under 6'10

They must know something we don't know.

But if he's still playing at the same level as last year, he'd be great for the Spurs.

[dbestpro]

Deke in a Spurs uniform would immediately become the most athletic big man that we have.

[SenorSpur]

Deke in a Spurs uniform would immediately become the most athletic big man that we have.

:lol

[024]

at this point sims and mahinmi will not see a single playoff minute. popovich will not put in two centers during playoff time that played only 3/4ths of a nba season their entire lives. mutombo is a veteran and at this point, what is there to lose? i actually believe kurt thomas will round into form when playoffs come like horry did in seasons past. but that still leaves us with an empty third big man in the rotation. oberto... i don't know, he's probably a fourth big man at best. spurs need someone to go up against shaq and then bynum + gasol and garnett. if the spurs can't make a trade to bring in a capable big man, then mutombo might just be an option.

[Bender]

is this the guy that breaks peoples faces ?

[Tully365]

Sims looks very frail.

I'm that last person that wants the Spurs to sign yet another old guy, but really I believe Mutumbo could pay dividends against the bigger frontlines of the Western Conference. I wouldn't have a probably with him at all.

Whether it be Sims or Deke, just get another big on his roster.

As far as I know, he has never had much of a history of injuries... though he looks to me to have a body type similar to Mahinmi. But then, Tayshawn Prince is much skinnier than either of them and is practically an Iron Man.

I've always like Deke's D too, but at this point I'd guess that Sims will be steadily improving and Mutombo steadily declining. Sims could probably be had for at least half the price too. At worst, he's a 3rd string center-- at best, he improves as much over the next five months as he has from last year to this year, and he's a legitimate nba big at a great bargain.

Though I wouldn't be opposed to the Spurs getting Deke either...

P.S. It's a crime that Artis Gilmore isn't in the HOF.

[MarHill]

At first....I was like NO WAY!!!!

But as I write this post....I believe Mutumbo can help this team in a limited role (about 15-20 mins a game). His size, defense, and rebounding will definitely help this team.

I will say yes....as long as he doesn't want outrageous money!!!

[Spurtacus]

Mutombo can still play.

[Yorae]

He has what Pop wants in a player; old, plays defense and a team player.....SIGN HIM!!!!!! That is if he won't be greedy...

[senorglory]

I want any1 who can rebound and block a shot who aint scared to go up with anybody. Our bigs get nervous against Shaq, Dirk, an Gasul(however you spell his name) :bking

What in tarnation are you talking about?

Our bigs get nervous?

Shaq, Gasol, and Dirk, are connected how, exactly?

Are you a troll?

[Chieflion]

Why not sign Mutumbo for one season just like what the Lakers did to Malone. Great defensive player and judging for what he did for the community, he seems like a good person. The only flaw is that you could never understand what he is talking about.

[Indazone]

From all reports I have read, Mutombo is willing to sign for the Vet's minimum.

[manufor3]

and get older, no thanks

[SpurSupremacist]

I like the move to bring Mutombo in. Way better than Thomas.

[Indazone]

The man provides absolutely no offense but he can still grab 10 rebounds a game if given minutes and block a lot of shots.

[romsho]

They should absolutely sign Mutombo if given the opportunity. When Yao was out last year, Deke was a huge part of that monster win streak by the Rockets. Amazingly, he can still play- and he brings, rebounding, shotblocking and length, which the Spurs outside of Duncan have little of. Frankly, I'm surprised this is even possible as it was asssumed he would eventually sign with the Rockets. A 7'2 defensive presecence for ten or fifteen minutes a game? Yeah, I think the Spurs could use that. Sign him.

[johnnyblues]

Mahinmi > Sims

[Manufan909]

Mahinmi > Sims

Care to back that up? Sims has seemingly better numbers across the board, but maybe he just get's more touches/his teams lack bigs so he does it all up front. It would be great to hear Chumps opinion on this.

And it would be even better to know who Pop is really looking at(aka the "list"). I hope Sims is in the top 5.

EDIT: 4.4 TOs is a shitload though.

[DROB4EVER]

He would be a good pick up, much better than Oberto and Thomas. His size and rebounding would be a big plus in the playoffs.

[Tully365]

Mahinmi > Sims

Possibly. We'll have to see them both in the league before we can say for sure. For now, though, Sims has put up better numbers in the D League than Mahinmi did. Though Mahinmi is 3 years younger too.

[SenorSpur]

As far as I know, he has never had much of a history of injuries... though he looks to me to have a body type similar to Mahinmi. But then, Tayshawn Prince is much skinnier than either of them and is practically an Iron Man.

I've always like Deke's D too, but at this point I'd guess that Sims will be steadily improving and Mutombo steadily declining. Sims could probably be had for at least half the price too. At worst, he's a 3rd string center-- at best, he improves as much over the next five months as he has from last year to this year, and he's legitimate nba big at a great bargain.

Though I wouldn't be opposed to the Spurs getting Deke either...

P.S. It's a crime that Artis Gilmore isn't in the HOF.

It sounds like Sims is progressing nicely. Any expectation that Sims would be able to contribute, as a backup, this season?

Either way, I'd rather the Spurs release Ahearn and take a shot at another backup big or a swing player. They already have 3 PGs for this season. Don't need to invest a roster spot on a 4th. I'd rather see them invest in a guy like Sims for next year. He, along with the continuted development of Ian, would really help shore up the backup frontline positions for the next couple of seasons.

As for my man, Gilmore, you're right. His HOF induction is long overdue. I keep waiting and expecting him to get in. Hope it's soon.

[Manufan909]

Is Sims a true 7 footer?

[rapliketp]

"Rockets won't sign him"

think about that for a minute.

It's the same reason why the Spurs didn't sign Scola and traded him to the Houston.

The Rockets are over luxury tax.

[Tully365]

Is Sims a true 7 footer?

6'11" with a 7'3" wingspan.

[TDMVPDPOY]

mount mutombo.....sign him...

[raspsa]

Aside from helping with rebounding and shotblocking, he will also have the effect of making every other Spur relatively that much younger.. the benefit to KT, Finley in particular should be significant..LOL

[Budkin]

I'll take Mt. Mutombo any day even at this age. Dude is a warrior.

[Tully365]

It sounds like Sims is progressing nicely. Any expectation that Sims would be able to contribute, as a backup, this season?

Either way, I'd rather the Spurs release Ahearn and take a shot at another backup big or a swing player. They already have 3 PGs for this season. Don't need to invest a roster spot on a 4th. I'd rather see them invest in a guy like Sims for next year. He, along with the continuted development of Ian, would really help shore up the backup frontline positions for the next couple of seasons.


It's always hard to say with D league guys... there haven't been too many examples of bigs who've made the jump from dominant d leaguer to legitimate NBA big. But it might be nice to give Sims a test run beside Mahinmi to see who can prove to be the better player. Mahinmi's D-league stats aren't as gaudy as those of some other guys, but he also only averaged about 30 mpg while Sims has so far averaged nearly 39 mpg. One of Mahinmi's main problems early on was staying out of foul trouble, which seems to be the case with many D-league bigs.

Another interesting development: with Monta Ellis coming back from his injury and suspension, the Warriors will have to waive or trade someone to make room on the roster. There are a few guys that might fit in with the immediate or future plans of the Spurs. One guy I like is DeMarcus Nelson-- he was defensive player of the year in the ACC last season (beating out James Gist, among others), has a 6'10" wingspan, and has looked very good so far. I think he'd be a perfect replacement for Vaughn next season, and his league minimum salary of $442,114 is something that the frugal Spurs would find appealing. Again, they could look at Nelson & Ahearn side by side to see which one fits the future plans better for the team... keep the better fit, and trade the other one. I imagine Brandan Wright and Anthony Randolph are untouchable, but Rob Kurz-- who has been playing very well lately-- might be available. The Warriors have made plenty of questionable moves in the past, so the Spurs might as well lurk around in the hope that they'll make another!

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

They should absolutely sign Mutombo if given the opportunity. When Yao was out last year, Deke was a huge part of that monster win streak by the Rockets. Amazingly, he can still play- and he brings, rebounding, shotblocking and length, which the Spurs outside of Duncan have little of. Frankly, I'm surprised this is even possible as it was asssumed he would eventually sign with the Rockets. A 7'2 defensive presecence for ten or fifteen minutes a game? Yeah, I think the Spurs could use that. Sign him.

I agree with that. Put him in the 'Kevin Willis 13th Man Enforcer' role. I remember KWill being used sparingly but effectively for the Spurs in the playoffs. With the right matchup Mutumbo could prove himself very valuable.

[benefactor]

....and there is now suddenly a roster spot open. Hmm....

[xtremesteven33]

I agree with that. Put him in the 'Kevin Willis 13th Man Enforcer' role. I remember KWill being used sparingly but effectively for the Spurs in the playoffs. With the right matchup Mutumbo could prove himself very valuable.



Yea man....my sentiments exactly

[Emeyin]

Yes, sign Mutombo.

[Tully365]

http://www.nba.com/2008/news/features/12/15/121508mutombofeature/index.html


Mutombo mulls NBA future, advocates support for Congo

By John Hareas, NBA.com
Posted Dec 15 2008 2:35PM

Dikembe Mutombo is not retired. The four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and 17-year NBA veteran will be making a decision on his basketball future within the next two weeks.



He's hoping people reading this article will make a decision today. A decision to save lives.

RELATED LINK

• Dikembe Mutombo Foundation, Mobile Accord Inc. partner together

"By text-messaging 'Congo' to 90999 on your cell phone, you can raise awareness for $5," Mutombo said. "We are trying to receive international support for the people of the Congo who are suffering daily from deadly diseases such as HIV, AIDS and Malaria. More than five million people have died and that number is growing. Last year, more than 1.4 million children have died from Malaria alone."

According to Mutombo, 50 to 60 percent of the patients at the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital in the Congo, named after his late mother, are dying from Malaria.

"With this mobile campaign, we are trying to reach 400,000 people nationwide who will hopefully text Congo," Mutombo said. "The goal is to raise $2 million this year. This money will go directly to those who are battling to stay alive."

The Dikembe Mutombo Foundation partnered with Mobile Accord, Denver-based company on this global mobile initiative, which officially launched today.

The man who has finger wagged his way to 3,287 blocks in his NBA career has been tireless in his efforts on behalf of his foundation in seeking funds and awareness, criss-crossing the country, meeting with potential donors and medical companies with one mission in mind.

"It's about saving lives," Mutombo said.

Another mission for Mutombo is to determine his next NBA home. The eight-time NBA All-Star has been working out, a three-plus hour daily regiment, featuring weight lifting, spin and yoga classes.

"Basketball is a mindset," Mutombo said. "And my mind is set to play the rest of this season before I retire this summer. "I will make a decision after I celebrate Christmas with my wife and kids."

Seven teams are interested and among those Mutombo is looking at include Boston, Miami and San Antonio. Asked about the chances of returning to Houston, Mutombo replied: "I don't know. I would certainly be open to it. I have a house there and a lot of friends in the city but it's still up in the air to see who will offer me a contract."

While this is the first time Mutombo has not played organized basketball in more than 20 years, the time off has served him and his foundation well.

"Every day, I always have something to do," said Mutombo. "With the time off, I've been able to accomplish a lot not only with the foundation but the hospital as well. I've been meeting with various medical companies around the world seeking partnerships to assist with the hospital."

Someone who has been instrumental in his foundation about the plight in Africa is Bono, lead singer of the uber rock group, U2.

"Bono is a personal friend of mine and he has done a lot in creating the awareness of the pain and suffering of the people of Africa," said Mutombo.

"He and I continue to work today to see how can we bring a change to Africa. All the people of Africa need hope, need to know that there is somebody out there who are thinking of them, worrying about them and who are willing to come and help them just a little bit."

Asked whether he has ever invited Bono to an NBA game, Mutombo laughed. "He always invites me to a concert when he's in America. I've gone to several shows. I never got a chance to invite him to a game. Maybe I should think about it next time."

It looks like he will have an opportunity in a matter of weeks.

[crc21209]

Mutombo To Celtics, Heat, Or Spurs?

Dikembe Mutombo said recently that he hopes to sign with an NBA team after the Christmas holiday and that Boston, Miami, and San Antonio have expressed interest.

"You'll see me in the next two weeks," Mutombo said. "I will be somewhere. I really need to go back to playing. I've just got to make sure that I go to a place where I can be happy. There are about four to five teams that I've been looking at and about seven teams that have shown interest. It's up to me to make my decision."

He also admitted that the Rockets, for whom he played last season, have "not answered" him regarding a return.


http://realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/56010/20081215/mutombo_to_celtics_heat_or_spurs/

[HarlemHeat37]

the Rockets can't afford Mutombo at this point..they're going to have to pay the luxury tax, same with the Lakers IIRC..

I would love having Mutombo on this team..big body, blocks shots and rebounds..we don't need him to score..

[xtremesteven33]

Hed be great to put on Bynum/Gasol.

Cause we all know that IF HEALTHY, these two teams will meet again in the western conference finals.

[Indazone]

Mutumbo is better than Kevin Willis even on his worst day.

[benefactor]

the Rockets can't afford Mutombo at this point..they're going to have to pay the luxury tax, same with the Lakers IIRC..

I would love having Mutombo on this team..big body, blocks shots and rebounds..we don't need him to score..
I was skeptical at first but the more I look at the situation the more I say we should go for it...maybe even moreso than bringing Sims in. What you said is what I started thinking about. We really don't need any scoring from him. All he has to do is guard the paint and pull down rebounds for the 15ish minutes per game that Tim is on the bench.

[HarlemHeat37]

yup..Bonner is enough of a scoring compliment in the front court..Matt stretches out the defense with his GREAT shooting..that's not what we're missing from our front court..

Mutombo will be a guy that will play 10-15 minutes, but more importantly, he'll be a situational player..when we need a defensive matchup to match with a bigger front court, we put in Deke..when we have an offense matchup we can exploit, we put in Bonner..

this also makes Oberto and Thomas our 4th and 5th options in the front court off the bench, which they would both be GREAT at..maybe if Ian shows something, he moves ahead of them too..

I don't see how signing Deke would hurt..if he doesn't come, I don't mind Alonzo neither, since he gives us the same impact, except he still has a little scoring in him too..

[Mr. Body]

This would solve the problem of Splitter not getting signed.

Anyone know why he only played 39 games last year?

[Yorae]

Sign him, I can only see trouble if Celtics get him...

[Indazone]

I think Morey is an idiot for not signing him. If he doesn't I will really be pissed off. But you're right. If the Celtics get him, that's just asking for trouble. That makes them even bigger and better defensively and gives them more weapons as if they need any more. I'd rather the Spurs get him.

[justanotherspursfan]

mount mutombo.....sign him...

I like the idea of signing him, but if you want to mount him, you're on your own. :lol

[Yorae]

I like the idea of signing him, but if you want to mount him, you're on your own. :lol

LMAOF:rollin....damn I didn't see that...

[Manufan909]

Hey, which thread did chump post the link that had the archived Iowa Energy game? I wanted to thank him, and see if anyone watched it closely, cuz I wasn't paying too much attention. And even if I had, there are many others on ST who could dissect his game better.

[duncan228]

Hey, which thread did chump post the link that had the archived Iowa Energy game? I wanted to thank him, and see if anyone watched it closely, cuz I wasn't paying too much attention. And even if I had, there are many others on ST who could dissect his game better.

Post #33

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=112192

[sook]

If they don't sign mutumbo it will be pretty hard to stay a fan of this team. In actuality...as much as i am giong to get flamed by the dumber posters on here...Mutumbo > Yao..why? Because every Shot mutumbo blocks is like negating 2 points. Every great defensive play he makes opens up the defense more and team CANT FRONT him, our outside shooters make him pay.

The points that Deke doesn't allow> the points Yao scores.

Rafer not shooting like crap/T-Mac insane passing to scola +landry/Deke defense = 22

[Manufan909]

Post #33

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=112192

Well thank you, ma'am.

[024]

mutumbo is old but the spurs can probably squeeze 10-15 minutes of production out of him. spurs waiving ahearn is a good sign, one roster spot open to sign a FA or make a trade. i still think the spurs should explore trade possibilities and exhausting that option before bringing in mutombo. mutombo might not back down against shaq/gasol/bynum/garnett but he is old and limited offensively. still, averaging 1.2 blocks in 15 minutes of play last season is pretty damn good.

[xtremesteven33]

If they don't sign mutumbo it will be pretty hard to stay a fan of this team. In actuality...as much as i am giong to get flamed by the dumber posters on here...Mutumbo > Yao..why? Because every Shot mutumbo blocks is like negating 2 points. Every great defensive play he makes opens up the defense more and team CANT FRONT him, our outside shooters make him pay.

The points that Deke doesn't allow> the points Yao scores.

Rafer not shooting like crap/T-Mac insane passing to scola +landry/Deke defense = 22




wow

[HarlemHeat37]

I wouldn't go nearly as far to say that Mutombo is nearly as good as Yao at this point..but the Rockets were better at times last year and before, when Deke was on the floor as opposed to Yao..

Dikembe is ageless..

[Mr. Body]

Mutombo instantly upgrades the front line. You couldn't play he and Bruce together in long stretches, but he provides rebounds and blocks in short minutes. Plus he's an exceptional character guy and loves competing. It's a perfect fit.

[Indazone]

Mutumbo plays center. So you guys are hurting at Center position. Oberto starts, you put Duncan in at PF and you have Deke come off the bench. 15-20 mpg.

[Indazone]

If this happens, it'll be hard to discern where the Rockets end and the Spurs begin. Lets trade some more pieces and make this really confusing.

[xtremesteven33]

Mutumbo plays center. So you guys are hurting at Center position. Oberto starts, you put Duncan in at PF and you have Deke come off the bench. 15-20 mpg.



yup. And hopefully if Bonner can keep his confidence up he can be a great backup for Timmy.

HYPOTHETICALLY....

Oberto/Mutombo
Duncan/Bonner
Bowen/Finley
Ginobili/Mason
Parker/Hill

thats a championship rotation :tu

[Indazone]

yeah, hate to say it but Deke would be the missing piece for the Spurs. Much more so than the Rockets

[raspsa]

In the same vein, Antoine Walker is expected to be bought out of his contract soon and will be looking for a new team. I'd still prefer Mutombo though.

[Xylus]

Yes.

/thread


You're welcome.

[benefactor]

Unless Pop hops on a plane and makes one of those personal trips he is known for making, Deke is probably headed to Boston.

The way Boston is playing right now with [Kevin Garnett], Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen, the team is heading in a direction toward winning another championship. It will be interesting if I made the decision to go there. It would be very good. I've been to the Finals twice [with Philadelphia and New Jersey]. I got close, but I walked away empty-handed. Maybe going to Boston would give me a chance to win.

http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/articles/2008/12/14/no_need_to_jazz_up_his_record/?page=3

[Manufan909]

Mutumbo plays center. So you guys are hurting at Center position. Oberto starts, you put Duncan in at PF and you have Deke come off the bench. 15-20 mpg.

Damn, even other team's fans want Fab to start, god damn. I guess he would work better as a starter than KT, even though he's currently the worst big on the roster, there's a reason he didn't play against OKC(unless he was hurt and I didn't know). He does have superb chemistry with Timmy, but where does this leave KT? Idk why I feel bad about KT/Ime/Fab not getting minutes, I guess I just want Pop to share the love.

Before I wanted to try Sims over Deke, but y'all have changed my mind. Sims wouldn't promise an instant defensive presence, but Mutumbo sure as fuck will. Hopefully Toll gets dropped and the Toros get Sims. A frontline of Duncan/Bonner/Deke/Ian/KT/Fab/Sims next season would be nice. Doubtful because that's 7, and from everything I've heard Pop never goes more than 6 deep with the bigs, and Gist might end up a PF(though I sorely hope he can transition to SF), but I can dream.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Mahinmi is the key here. If he can come in and block some shots, hit the boards, provide some energy, this team could go a long way. Get him on the court!

If that doesn't work and Mutumbo is still around, by all means...

[SenorSpur]

I'd love to get Mutumbo. The guy is a former 4-time DPOY. Besides his obvious defensive prowess, having Ian go up against him in practice would help further the kid's development. Plus he'd be the ultimate mentor.

[8ft.tall.tejano]

if they could do it for cheap.......and it didn't involve losing anyone or too much salary cap space...

[bobbybob0]

I agree but I would still like Mutumbo to give us 8 mpg. Bonner, Ian and Mutombo would give us one hell of a combo at the 5. A guy that can shoot his ass off, a guy who can outrun SFs and a guy who can block shots and rebound as well as knock guys teeth out!

Too bas they can't be on the floor at the same time !

[xtremesteven33]

i think this is the perfect kind of team defense that mutombo can thrive in. The perimiter defenders mostly force players to go baseline and await for Duncan to get the block on the way to basket or change the shot. Deke is a great weakside defender even for his age. He takes pride in his shot blocking ability and his basketball IQ.

Im not saying hell win us a championship. but he could provide the help we need.

[Manufan909]

When's the earlist the Spurs could sign Mutombo if Pop really wanted to?