Watch CBS News

Nets, Knicks Season-Ticket Holders Call For Full Refunds

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Fans and local business owners are calling on the NBA to get its act together.

WCBS 880's Marla Diamond: Smith Calls For Fans To Occupy The NBA

Podcast

Sen. Malcolm Smith joined disgruntled fans as well as Nets and Knicks season-ticket holders outside Madison Square Garden on Wednesday to sign a petition calling for full refunds with interest and demanding an end to the standoff.

Restaurant and tavern owners, along with other city merchants and vendors are also voicing their frustrations, claiming they have lost more than $1 million in revenue due to the cancellation of the pro basketball games.

If David Stern and Billy Hunter don't come to an agreement in the next few weeks, Smith said he will hold a national "Day of Solidarity" on Dec. 11 calling on other cities, such as Los Angeles and Chicago, to organize protests outside NBA arenas.

Smith added that if the lockout continues past that date, he will call on full refunds on all season tickets whether or not the games are eventually played.

NBA Lockout Petition
Sen. Malcom Smith signs NBA petition on Nov. 23, 2011 (credit: Marla Diamond/WCBS 880)

Earlier this week, Michael Goldberg, the executive director of NBA coaches association, wrote a letter to the NBA, the players' association and players stressing that the upcoming season must be saved.

1010 WINS' Juliet Papa reports

Podcast

Last week, the players' association rejected a proposal by the league for a new labor deal and disbanded the union, paving the way for players to file two antitrust lawsuits.

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.