Ex-Knicks Forward Anthony Mason Dead At 48

Anthony Mason, a bruising power forward who personified the gritty Knicks of the mid-'90s, died early Saturday morning. He was 48. Mason had suffered a massive heart attack earlier in the month.

Mason played 13 seasons in the NBA with six teams but is best remembered for his days with the Knicks. After playing abroad and in both the CBA and USBL, Mason had brief stints with the Nets and Denver before being signed by Pat Riley, who admired his rugged style and his playmaking ability. Along with Patrick Ewing and Charles Oakley, he helped give the Knicks of the early ’90s one of the most physically imposing front lines in NBA history.

"My heart is heavy after learning we lost Anthony Mason last night," Ewing said. "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. I will remember him for his strength, determination and perseverance. My thoughts are with is family. May he rest in peace."

"First I want to think all those who offered prayers and well-wishes for my Father, our family really appreciates it," Anthony Mason Jr. said in a statement.

“Overnight New York City and the world lost a legend, a friend, a brother... but more than anything our father, Anthony Mason,” Mason Jr. continued. “As you all would expect our father - Big Mase - put up an incredible fight, dealing with severe heart issues. 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. ‘”

“I ask at this time that you respect our family's privacy with regard to questions as our family takes the time to mourn,” Mason Jr.’s message concluded.

Mason and John Starks were both classic examples of self-made players; they both went undrafted yet found a home in New York under Riley while emerging as key players on a Knicks team that reached the NBA Finals in 1994. The following season, Mason was named Sixth Man of the Year.

SOURCE