The award is given annually to an individual who has found the game of basketball a contributing aspect to their personal growth and accomplishment, a place to develop an understanding of others, and an avenue that helped shape that individual's growth into a recognized visionary leader.

Jackson Award recipients embrace the core values of the game: hard-work, striving to improve and a commitment to others. Beyond the game they reflect the values of Mannie Jackson's life-long mission to overcome obstacles; challenge the status quo, take responsibility for his or her actions while seeking the highest standard of excellence. It's a commitment that transcends personal reward and constantly challenges the human spirit.

In their community, this person is a recognized leader and catalyst for change. Ultimately, they are singular individuals who lead by example, demonstrating a philosophy of respectfulness, teamwork, commitment, and human compassion in all aspects of their lives.

HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES DIKEMBE MUTOMBO AS FIRST RECIPIENT OF THE MANNIE JACKSON - BASKETBALL'S HUMAN SPIRT AWARD

New Award to be Presented During Enshrinement Ceremony

SPRINGFIELD, MA - (August 2, 2007) - The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announces Dikembe Mutombo as the first recipient of The Mannie Jackson - Basketball's Human Spirit Award. This Award is given annually to an individual who has found the game of basketball a contributing aspect to their personal growth and accomplishment, a place to develop an understanding of others, and an avenue that helped shape that individual's growth into a recognized visionary leader in the greater community in which they serve.

Dikembe Mutombo is a graduate of Georgetown University and a current NBA star who has recorded more than 3,000 career blocks. Off the court, Mutombo has given his time and himself to various causes including the United Nations Development Program. He has opened the Biama Mutombo 300 bed teaching hospital in Zaire, and established the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation for helping youth. Mutombo has also worked with the NBA Basketball without Borders. He has received the Essence Magazine Achiever Award for philanthropic work and the Presidential Service Award for his work and contributions.

Mutombo was chosen as the 2007 Award winner by a blue ribbon committee comprised of national and international business and community leaders, Hall of Famers and others with significant experience and success in improving communities worldwide. Other finalists who reflect the core values of this award and were considered this year included Earvin Magic Johnson, Cecil Watkins, and Bob Leonard.

"We are so pleased to announce Mr. Mutombo as the first recipient of this honorable award", said John L. Doleva, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame President and CEO. "His dedication on the court is only surpassed by his dedication off the court to his foundation and to the people of Africa. Mannie Jackson has set an unprecedented standard for this award and Mr. Mutombo has exceeded those standards", added Doleva.

Additional criteria for Award candidates include embracing the core values of the game: hard-work, striving to improve and a commitment to others. Beyond the game, candidates must reflect the values of Mannie Jackson's life-long mission to overcome obstacles; challenge the status quo, take responsibility for his or her actions while - seeking the highest standard of excellence. Award candidates will be a recognized leader and catalyst for change in their community and an individual who leads by example, demonstrates a philosophy of respectfulness, teamwork, commitment, and human compassion in all aspects of their lives.

The Mannie Jackson Award will be presented during the Enshrinement Ceremony on Friday, September 7th. The evening will also include the induction of the Class of 2007. Class members include; Phil Jackson, who led the Lakers and Bulls to a record nine NBA titles, the 1966 NCAA Champions from Texas Western, University of North Carolina Coach Roy Williams, four time WNBA Championship coach Van Chancellor, referee Mendy Rudolph and international coaches Pedro Ferrandiz and Mirko Novosel. Tickets for the Enshrinement Ceremony can be purchased by calling 413-231-5511. Additional Enshrinement Weekend information, including tickets for the Saturday, September 8th Induction Celebration, can be found at www.hoophall.com.