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[Saba Sports News] The New York Knicks and Charles Oakley have been at odds for the past eight years following a high-profile altercation at Madison Square Garden, but a new report indicates the team may be open to mending fences — under one condition.
According to Jared Schwartz of the New York Post, the Knicks would be willing to welcome Oakley back as an honored alumnus — if he agrees to drop his ongoing lawsuit against team owner James Dolan and Madison Square Garden.
Should he do so, Oakley would reportedly be invited back to games and team functions as a celebrated former player.
Oakley’s falling out with the organization began in February 2017 when he was forcefully removed from MSG after an altercation with arena security. Though his ban from the venue has since been lifted, Oakley has only been allowed to attend games as a regular fan who purchases his own ticket.
Unlike many other former Knicks — who are frequently given courtside seats near Dolan and spotlighted during broadcasts — Oakley has remained on the outside.
The 61-year-old was a key figure during his ten-year stint with the Knicks, including as the team’s starting center during their 1994 run to the NBA Finals.
However, he is still pursuing legal action against Dolan and MSG, including claims of assault and battery stemming from the 2017 incident. Oakley has also said he wants a formal apology from Dolan — one that has yet to come.
With the Knicks currently battling in the Eastern Conference Finals, Oakley may not have many opportunities left this season to attend a game — even if a reconciliation were to happen.