Anthony Mason was a fearsome force on the court, helping lead the New York Knicks to the 1994 NBA Finals.
He played 13 seasons in the NBA, including five for the Knicks. His accolades include a Sixth Man of the Year Award and one NBA All-Star selection.
Now, his name and memory will be honored with a street co-naming in the neighborhood where he grew up.
Among the 42 streets being co-named this year is “Anthony Mason Way,” which will be 147th Street between 123rd Avenue and Rockaway Boulevard.
Councilman Ruben Wills, who led the proposal, said Mason will be remembered not only for his tenacity in professional basketball, but also for his winning ways as a high school basketball player for Springfield Gardens High School.
“This South Jamaica raised Springfield Educational Campus PSAL Champion rose from near obscurity to earn acclaim as one of the most fearsome but talented power forwards of his NBA playing career,” Wills said in a statement.
Mason passed away about a year ago from a heart attack.
His son, Anthony Mason Jr., thanked the councilman for honoring his father.
“There are two things my father had endless love and immense pride for; one was his family and the other, New York City, his home,” Mason Jr. said. “I believe the signing of this bill for Anthony Mason Way satisfies both of those things, and will ensure his legacy.”
