Midtown Renaissance announced September 28 that NBA player Desmond Mason is the winner of its Plaza Court Retail Contest. Mason's proposal for an art studio, which he will use to produce works and host events, was selected for its potential to enhance the creative energy of the district.

"Desmond brings exactly the type of creative retail presence we were hoping to attract with this competition," said Mickey Clagg, Midtown Renaissance developer. "His art has attracted a local and national following, and we are thrilled he is bringing this momentum to the Midtown area."

Mason's business was selected based on creativity and entrepreneurial nature of the business, a business concept that fills a void in the local market and demonstrated expertise in the business proposed.  He is awarded rent-free retail space in the Plaza Court Building, NW 10 and Walker Avenue, for the first year of a three-year lease.

"Bringing my style of art, and the other business ventures we are planning, to a city that has embraced change is a special opportunity that I'm excited to be a part of," Mason said. "The leaders of this city have stepped up and taken the challenge, and the development and renovation of Mid-Town is a big part of that."