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Remembering A Knicks’ Legend: Anthony Mason

By Andrew Garcia

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After an emotional weekend involving the burying of Anthony Mason, we look back on the Knicks’ star forward and recall all of his stellar moments both on and off the court.

“Once A Knick, Always A Knick”

Anthony Mason was buried Friday morning after passing from a heart attack on February 28th. Family, friends, and former teammates attended the funeral to pay their respects to New York hoop star who was taken from us all much too early at the age of 48. He was more than 6′ 7″ forward out of Tennessee State University, Mason was a visionary and an influential character in and out of his Knick’s uniform.

He had something that was special and unique, and not many players had it — competitive desire to win

The Knicks’ forward contributed five seasons of great ball and provided New York fans with something to cheer for, especially in the 1994 playoff run. Mason will always be remembered in New York for his contagious smile and do-or-die mentality on the court, not to mention the hairstyle he wore for many years. He put up stellar numbers in each season as a Knick but played arguably his best ball in the small forward position during the 95′-96′ season, which happened to be the last season he would suit up in a New York uniform.

Playing in rough New York neighborhoods throughout Queens helped craft Anthony Mason into the player he became. He was a young, tough kid with an enormous heart who made it out of the playgrounds and performed at the sport’s highest level for his home crowd at none other than the holy mecca, Madison Square Garden.

Mason managed to pack his bags and come back to New York after two seasons in the NBA. He was quickly welcomed by fans and picked up right where he left off as a stunning ball player and a community hero. “Mase In Ya Face” kept Knicks’ fans on their toes each and every night as the team shook the Garden throughout the early 90’s. The Queens native gave back to his community quite often and committed himself to giving young men the same hope he needed to succeed, while leaving it all on the court every night.

“Well he’s a star, a star of the community.” -Yvette Stone

The NBA, its players and fans alike wear for the loss of Anthony Mason. There is no person or player like him and his passing will be felt across the league for many years to come. We all must attempt to move on and remember the good Mason provided throughout his 13-year career, specifically the five brilliant seasons he gave to Knicks’ fans across the nation.

Watch ESPN’s special on Anthony Mason (Highlights & Biggest Moments):

Anthony Mason, being known for his big heart and sheer love for the game, will surely be missed as an amazing athlete, a devoted father, and most importantly, a loving friend.

“He’s going to be missed.” -John Starks

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