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Former New York Knicks forward, Anthony Mason, has died after having multiple heart surgeries. He was 48-years old.

Mason, a 13-year NBA veteran, was diagnosed with congestive heart failure after suffering a massive heart attack a few weeks ago.

“First I want to thank all those who offered prayers and well-wishes for my Father, our family really appreciates it,” his son, Anthony Mason Jr., said Saturday.

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

The elder Mason, a fan-favorite during his five-year tenure with the Knicks, was known for his heart and to be a furious defender. He, alongside Patrick Ewing, Charles Oakley and John Starks, led the team to become Eastern Conference champions and a seven-game NBA Finals run, where they lost to a Houston Rockets team led by Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler.

Mason also earned a Sixth Man Award in 1994-95 as a member of the Knicks.

Photo: YouTube