Anthony Mason ‘Fighting For His Life’ After Suffering A ‘Massive Heart Attack’


Anthony Mason is “fighting for his life” after suffering a “massive heart attack.”

The 13-year NBA veteran had a heart attack earlier this week and has since been undergoing numerous surgeries at a hospital in New York.

First to break the news was retired NBA columnist Peter Vecsey. Vecsey shared the news on Twitter and proceeded to give updates on Mason’s condition.

“Sickened 2 report, ex-Knick Anthony Mason fighting 4 life. Congestive heart failure, heart attack, 4 surgeries, last one 9 hrs. Sons by side,” Vecsey tweeted. “Anthony Mason is 48. His mother, Mary will be 90 tomorrow…”

“Mason, 350 lbs, had heart issue 4 yr. Was on 2d fl of hosp taking test when attack occurred. Surgery was on 3. Very lucky not on 1, I’m told,” Vecsey added. “Should Anthony Mason pull through, I’m told he’ll need a heart transplant. Charles Oakley may be lone person with one big enough…”

According to the New York Post, Mason played for six teams during his time in the NBA, but he is probably best known for his time spent with the New York Knicks from 1991 to 1996, where he averaged 9.9 points and 7.7 rebounds.

While the Knicks have not released an official statement, they did offer their condolences to the Mason family via Twitter. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Anthony Mason and his family. #Knicks,” the team tweeted.

Mark Jackson, Mason’s former teammate, also reached out to his friend through social media. “Praying for my former teammate Anthony Mason!!!” Jackson tweeted.

Mason also played for the Nets, Nuggets, Hornets, Heat and Bucks, according to the Washington Post, and was a part of the CBA and USBL.

Anthony won the Sixth Man of the Year award in 1995 and made the All-Star team, while a member of the Miami Heat, in 2001. Mason decided to retire in 2003, ending his career with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Mason’s sons Anthony Jr. and Antoine, who have stayed near their father’s bedside, are both pursuing careers of their own in basketball. Currently, Anthony Jr. is playing professionally in Europe and Antoine is playing for the Auburn Tigers.

[Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images]

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