Former Knick Anthony Mason died of congestive heart failure on Saturday morning at the age of 48.
MY MAN MY MAN A. MASON R.I.P, WE GONNA MISS U BROTHER
— Charles Oakley (@CharlesOakley34) February 28, 2015
Mason, who was a key member of the mid-’90s Knicks teams, suffered a heart attack earlier this month. Per the New York Daily News:
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.”
