It was seen as a dark day in the NBA, as the New York Knicks organization released a statement stating they had banned fan favorite, Charles Oakley, from ever entering Madison Square Garden again.
Since the news broke, there has been an outpouring of support for Oakley with players, fans and NBA personalities outraged by the decision of the Knicks. It was a slap in the face for one of the franchise’s greatest servants, making an already dysfunctional Knicks organization look even worse in the public eye.
One of the many personalities that jumped into Oakley’s corner was Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James, who was quick to put up a post on social media showing support for “Uncle Oak”. James even ended his press conference after his Cavaliers faced the Oklahoma City Thunder with “Oakley for President”.
James has been instrumental in the support for Oakley, and could even take it one step further on February 23rd, as the Knicks visit Quicken Loans Arena. You see, James and company control who sits in the first row near the visitor’s bench, and the four-time MVP could well invite Oakley to watch the world champions on their home floor amidst the controversy.
The possibility of it all was delivered by Brian Windhorst.
It’s not beyond James and company to make a statement in the support and stance of something they feel is important. Don’t be surprised if you see Oakley cheering on the wine and gold from courtside on February 23rd right behind the Knicks bench and owner, James Dolan.