Trending News|March 02, 2015 02:21 EST
Anthony Mason News: Former New York Knicks Star Dies at Age 48
Former NBA player Anthony Mason passed away at the age of 48 over the weekend, ESPN reported.
The report says that a New York Knicks spokesperson told ESPN that the long time NBA player, who was a vital cog in the Knicks' 199 Finals appearance, died early Saturday morning losing a battle with congestive heart failure, which he was diagnosed with in early February.
"First, I want to thank all those who offered prayers and well-wishes for my father, our family really appreciates it," said Anthony Mason Jr. in a statement. "Overnight, New York city and the world lost a legend, a friend, brother"¦but more than anything our father, Anthony Mason. As you all would expect, our father"”Big Mase"”put up an incredible fight, dealing with a severe heart issue. I'm wishing this was something else I was writing, but Pops, we've got to let you know we love you and know you'll always be with us."
Veteran New York basketball writer Peter Vecsey first tweeted about Mason's condition last February 11, saying that the rugged former Knick was "fighting for his life" after undergoing multiple surgeries, one of which, lasted nine hours, as noted by Ball Don't Lie.
Mason, who had ballooned to 350 pounds, had been dealing with heart problems for the past year, and after undergoing the procedures had reportedly progressed to being able to non-verbally respond to family members.
"Anthony Mason exemplified perseverance for all players fighting for their chance in the NBA. NBA fans and players around the league admired his tenacity on defense and playmaking on offense," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said.
Despite averaging 28 points, 10.4 rebounds, three assists, and two steals per game for Tennessee State, Mason fell all the way to the third round in the 1988 NBA draft before being drafted with the 53rd overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers.
"My heart is heavy after learning that we lost Anthony Mason last night," Patrick Ewing said in a statement. "We were teammates on the Knicks for five great seasons. Mase came to play every night and was always ready to go to battle with me every time we stepped on the court together."
