14. Dikembe Mutombo
Dikembe Mutombo had a successful 18-year NBA career. He was a dominant force in the paint, deterring opponents from driving to the basket with his innate shot-blocking ability and intimidating presence. He became popular for his towering presence and signature finger wag after a block. Mutombo's defensive skills earned him widespread recognition and numerous accolades, including becoming the first four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year.
The 7’2” center from the Democratic Republic of the Congo also led the league in blocks three times, led the league in rebounds two times, and earned six All-Defense selections. Despite never being a focal point of any offense he played in and averaging less than 14 points per game every season except his rookie year, Mutombo’s defensive prowess earned him eight All-Star and three All-NBA team selections.
He retired after the 2008-09 season and is a member of the 2015 Hall of Fame class. Mutombo is the Denver Nuggets’ franchise leader in blocks and, ranks second in the NBA blocks and seventh in blocks per game all-time.