Anthony Mason Jr. returned to action on January 9  in Louisville, nearly 14 months after his college career seemingly ended.

His first shot back clanged off the rim, just long.  But in truth there were days his return appeared a longshot.

The return has not been completed.  His lateral movement appears cautious and the forward posted just six total points in the first two games back.  Forget the details though.  The journey back to the beloved hardwood was anything but assured.

A severe foot injury knocked him out of a November 11, 2008 game at Boston College.

“Young Mase” found out ten days later via MRI that he had torn the peroneal tendon in his right foot.

At that point two hurdles had to be overcome before Mason could see another college basketball game up close.  He needed to have successful surgery and receive a medical redshirt from the NCAA.

On July 21 of last year, Mase Jr. was officially granted a medical hardship by the NCAA.  Though thankful, St. John’s figured all along Mason would return as its doctors looked after him throughout the entire process.

The return, ordinarily laborious and tiresome enough, hit a snag in September as Mason Jr. and supporters realized he nearly tore another part of his leg, the hamstring.  As any athlete knows, you do not mess with the hamstring.  Not only does the pain prevent all serious movements and cuts, the hammy injuries linger.  And linger.

Unfortunately Young Mase reinjured the finicky muscle in October, slowing his return by at least four more weeks.  Fast forward to mid-December.  Still, the son of New York Knick star Anthony Mason was not ready to play basketball. According to doctors the hamstring needed at least three more weeks to fully recover.

Two days after Christmas, Mason was given the best present of all…clearance to practice with his college team.

“He is physically in good shape,” observed head coach Norm Roberts.  “Conditioning-wise he is not in good shape.  That will dictate how much he plays.”

Though Mason still needs to find his wind, the skills never left him.  Against the Cards his lateral movement was OK.  In time his leaping and most of his explosiveness should return.  He narrowly missed a slam dunk off an offensive rebound.

The NBA might be a fading dream for the talented fifth-year senior.  For now, though, smaller accomplishments should suffice.  The fact Mason played 15 minutes at St. John’s just half a week after debuting against Louisville is encouraging.

Going forward, the Johnnies will benefit from the experience and athleticism of their most experienced player, Anthony Mason, Jr.

Tags: Anthony Mason, Louisville, St John's

Andrew Force, "a rising star in the broadcast fraternity," is a freelance sportswriter and broadcast journalist based in Dayton, OH. He focuses primarily on the Big East, Atlantic 10, Mid-American, and Missouri Valley Conferences for Bracketography.