Dec. 7, 2005

Washington, D.C. - Former Georgetown University men's basketball players Dikembe Mutombo and Alonzo Mourning were featured today in a FoxSports.com story focusing on athletes who have given back to their community.

In a story written by Dan Neil on FoxSports.com, the former Hoya hoopsters were tabbed among the top-10 "most generous athletes." Mutombo was tabbed at No. 1, while Mourning was tabbed eighth.

"I'm really proud that two guys I coached were among this group," former Georgetown Head Coach John Thompson II said during his radio show on SportsTalk 980 AM on Wednesday afternoon. "At this time of year, it's good to hear about people being recognized for things that are positive in the community."

"Mutombo has donated an astounding $15 million to build a hospital in his native Congo. The hospital, named after Mutombo's mother, is about 75 percent complete, and the gentle giant is trying to raise another $2 million by the end of the year. He also has donated $150,000 to help underprivileged children in South Africa.

What makes Mutombo so committed to helping the poor in his native land? In many ways, he is honoring his father. "I was raised in poverty -- so poor," Mutombo said. "My dad made only $37 a month. But he was so strong that he raised 10 children and taught us everything right. My father did so much for me that I want to have an impact on other people's lives."

Helping others can turn into a chain reaction, Mutombo pointed out. "Maybe you can contribute to someone else's life, and they in turn can make a difference in so many others' lives," he said. "We're here to help others help themselves."

"Mourning's foundation, Alonzo Mourning Charities, assists underprivileged children and their families. It spent $716,000 in 2003. The foundation helps finance 100 Black Men of South Florida, which provides educational and economic assistance for all minorities. Alonzo Mourning Charities also gives financial support to Children's Home Society of Florida in Miami, which serves abused, abandoned and neglected children, including those suffering from HIV and developmental disabilities. The foundation also delivers complete Thanksgiving meals to 333 families in South Florida communities."

Georgetown returns to action on Thursday, playing at No. 10 Illinois. Tipoff at Assembly Hall is slated for 9 p.m. (ET) and the game will be shown live on ESPN and can be heard on AM 570 locally.

Read the complete FoxSports.com article, here.