Hall of Famer and eight-time NBA All-Star Mutombo died at the age of 58 following a battle with brain cancer Monday and during Media Day, Ujiri paid an emotional tribute to the icon.

On a most difficult and emotional morning, Masai Ujiri was telling a story about getting promoted in Denver years ago and a chance meeting at the airport he had with the legendary Dikembe Mutombo. Ujiri had dressed for comfort that day in a track suit when Mutombo asked him a rhetorical question.

TORONTO — On a day generally highlighted by hype and zaniness, Masai Ujiri brought moderation and solemnity.