Anthony Mason was a professional basketball player who played in the NBA for 13 seasons. He was known for his versatility and toughness on the court, and was a key player for several teams throughout his career.

Mason began his basketball career at Tennessee State University, where he played for four years and was named the Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Year in his senior season. He went undrafted in the 1988 NBA draft, but was signed by the New Jersey Nets as a free agent.

Mason played for the Nets for two seasons before being traded to the Denver Nuggets in 1991. He played for the Nuggets for one season before being traded again, this time to the New York Knicks. It was with the Knicks that Mason had his most successful years, playing alongside stars like Patrick Ewing and Charles Oakley.

Mason was a key player for the Knicks during the mid-1990s, helping the team reach the NBA Finals in 1994 and 1999. He was known for his tough defense, rebounding, and ability to play multiple positions. He was also a skilled passer and ball-handler, and was often used as a point forward in the Knicks' offense.

After leaving the Knicks in 1996, Mason played for several other teams, including the Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat, and Milwaukee Bucks. He continued to be a valuable player, but never reached the same level of success he had with the Knicks.

Mason retired from the NBA in 2003, finishing his career with averages of 10.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. He was named to the NBA All-Star team once, in 2001, and was also named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1997.

Off the court, Mason was known for his colorful personality and unique sense of style. He was also a talented musician, and released a rap album in 1994.

Sadly, Mason passed away in 2015 at the age of 48 due to congestive heart failure. He was remembered by his former teammates and fans as a fierce competitor and a beloved member of the basketball community.

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