Watch CBS News

Group Protests Isiah Thomas' New Role With Liberty Outside Of Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- The protestors numbered only about two-dozen, but the amount of reporters who showed up at an Isiah Thomas protest along with Madison Square Garden management and security personnel indicated that their message might be getting through.

It was loud and clear, 1010 WINS' Carol D'Auria reported, they wore t-shirts that said 'I am Anucha Browne.'

They wanted to show solidarity with the former Knicks executive who accused Thomas of sexual harassment.

"I think it's important for women to know that their voice matters and not to feel that they're being silenced just because someone doesn't like what they have to say," organizer Nevin Caple said.

At a news conference Thomas refused to comment on the protests. A statement from the Garden said the women are misinformed.

Group Protests Isiah Thomas' New Role With Liberty Outside Of Madison Square Garden

"The Women's Sports Foundation has continued to rely on erroneous and exaggerated media reports regarding Isiah Thomas and MSG. They are misinformed. In fact, the case was never concluded. Anucha Browne Sanders voluntarily dismissed her complaint. Ms. Sanders accepted that MSG and Mr. Thomas did not admit guilt or concede any wrongdoing. MSG agreed to forego any additional legal action and agreed to a payment covering past and future salary and legal expenses. Isiah Thomas did not pay anything."

Thomas was the president of the Knicks from 2003 to 2008, and coached the team from 2006 to 2008. He was accused of sexual harassment by Browne in 2007.

MSG announced that Thomas would serve as the New York Liberty's president and part owner, last month. The announcement sparked criticism from fans and advocacy groups.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.