Manute Bol, 7’7″ NBA Legend, Dies at 47

Manute Bol’s death at 47 was a tragic loss to the basketball and humanitarian world. The 7’7” NBA legend, known for his shot-blocking skills, left an enduring legacy.

The Life and Career of Manute Bol

Manute Bol was a Sudanese-American basketball player, widely recognized for his towering height of 7 feet 7 inches, making him one of the tallest players in NBA history. Born on October 16, 1962, in Sudan, Bol came from the Dinka ethnic group, known for their exceptional height.

Bol moved to the United States to pursue basketball and played college basketball at the University of Bridgeport before being drafted into the NBA in 1985. He played for teams such as the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat. His greatest strength was shot-blocking—he led the NBA in blocks in 1986 and 1989, finishing his career with an astounding blocks-per-game average.

Beyond basketball, Bol was known for his humanitarian work. He dedicated much of his earnings to helping Sudanese refugees and advocating for peace in his war-torn homeland. His net worth at the time of his passing was estimated to be modest, as he donated much of his wealth to charitable causes.

The Death of Manute Bol

Manute Bol passed away on June 19, 2010, at the age of 47 due to complications from kidney failure and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

He died at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, Virginia. His illness was believed to have been worsened by an adverse reaction to medication while he was in Sudan working on humanitarian efforts.

Bol was laid to rest in his native Sudan, where he was mourned as both a sports icon and a dedicated philanthropist. His legacy continues through his contributions to basketball and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of others.

Quotes

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“I love my family.” (Manute Bol)

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“I’d like to do things to make money to save myself but right now I can’t do nothing. If they want to put me in jail, they can do that. It’s kind of tough.” (Manute Bol)

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“God guided me to America and gave me a good job. But he also gave me a heart so I would look back.” (Manute Bol)

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“I’m not a violent person.” (Manute Bol)

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“I’ve gone to war zones before and never got shot.” (Manute Bol)