Thunder G Mason out for season

Jan 29, 2009 - 8:45 PM OKLAHOMA CITY (Ticker) - Oklahoma City Thunder guard Desmond Mason will miss the remainder of the season after hyperextending his right knee, the team announced Thursday.

Mason suffered the injury in the third quarter of Wednesday's 114-102 overtime victory against the Memphis Grizzlies. He underwent an MRI exam Thursday morning that revealed bruising to his right femur and tibia.

Team physicians will perform arthroscopic surgery to remove debris caused by the injury.

"We are disappointed to lose Desmond for the remainder of the season," Thunder general manager Sam Presti said. "He is a valuable part of our efforts on and off the court. We will support Desmond and work with him throughout the rehabilitation process. Unfortunately, the timing of the injury does not allow Desmond to return this season."

Mason appeared in 39 games, including 19 starts, for the Thunder this season and averaged 7.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists.