Former NBA forward Anthony Mason passed away at the age of 48 on Saturday morning.
ESPN reports that Mason died due to congestive heart failure which he was diagnosed with earlier this month. Mason played 13 seasons in the NBA including a 5-year stint with the New York Knicks that saw the team reach the NBA Finals in the 1994-1995 season. Mason became a fan favorite for his physical play and unique hair designs. Mason's former teammate and Knicks legend Patrick Ewing offered his condolences after hearing the news.
"My heart is heavy after learning that we lost Anthony Mason last night," Ewing said in a statement. "Mase came to play every night and was always ready to go to battle with me every time we stepped on the court together."
According to the New York Times, Mason leaves behind two sons in Anthony Jr., a professional basketball player in Cyprus, and Antoine who currently plays for Auburn University.
Mason averaged 10.9 points and 8.3 rebounds per game throughout his career and was named Sixth Man of the Year for the 1994-1995 season with the Knicks.