Ex-Knick on defense vs. ‘B.S.’ raps in MSG dust-up
Former Knick Charles Oakley appeared Tuesday in Manhattan Criminal Court, where he insisted he did nothing wrong in his embarrassing scuffle with security guards at Madison Square Garden.
“I bought a ticket. I was sitting in my seat, and eight people walk up on you, and the next thing you know, you’re dragged out of the Garden. It’s so disrespect[ful],” Oakley told reporters outside the courtroom.
“I always try to treat people with respect, and I just don’t know. I got three assault cases for no reason,” he said.
The retired forward faces misdemeanor charges for allegedly attacking two security guards during the Knicks’ Feb. 8 game against the LA Clippers.
Several Garden employees said Oakley was acting out of control and tried to access an off-limits area in an apparent effort to taunt Knicks owner and nemesis James Dolan.
The 6-foot-8 Oakley allegedly began cursing at the security guards, “All of you suck Dolan’s d--k!” and cried racism when they physically hauled him out of the arena.
One officer asked Oakley to leave more than three times, a criminal complaint says.
The 54-year-old former star is charged with assault, aggravated harassment, attempted assault, criminal trespass and harassment. He was released on his own recognizance and will be back in court May 30.
Oakley wouldn’t say whether he planned to try for a plea deal.
“I’m just trying to do what I have to do right now,” he said. “It’s some B.S. for me. It’s a process. They say you have to play the game.”
While Dolan initially banned Oakley from the Garden for life, the owner eventually backed off.
But Oakley said he is staying away from The Garden anyway.
Apparently referring to the Knicks’ abysmal 30-51 record this season, he said, “I feel bad for the fans. I feel bad for a lot of teams in the NBA.”