Sad news to report in basketball as former NBA player Anthony Mason has passed away at the age of 48 years old.

Mason had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure earlier this month. Anthony Mason Jr released a statement on behave of the family:

"First I want to thank all those who offered prayers and well-wishes for my Father, our family really appreciates it. Overnight, New York City and the world lost a legend, a friend, a brother ... but more than anything our father, Anthony Mason."

Mason was a very popular player when he played for the New York Knicks and he was part of the team that made it to the NBA Finals in 1994. He played 13 years in the NBA and besides playing with the Knicks, Mason also played with the Charlotte Hornets, Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat.

More From 600 ESPN El Paso