Oakley arrested at Knicks game after altercation

[February 09, 2017]  (Reuters) - Former NBA player Charles Oakley was arrested on Wednesday during the game between the New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Clippers after an altercation with security guards at Madison Square Garden.

Oakley, who played the bulk of his 19-year career in New York, had to be forcibly removed from his courtside seat by several security guards after he was seen pushing and arguing with them.

The scuffle was provoked by Oakley yelling at Knicks owner James Dolan, according to the New York Daily News.

Oakley, 53, has been estranged from the Knicks franchise and owner Dolan for some time after making public criticisms.

The game stopped briefly while Oakley was being walked away from the court, as players looked on and the crowd chanted "Oakley! Oakley" as he was being led away.

The Knicks tweeted a statement following the incident.

"Charles Oakley came to the game tonight and behaved in a highly inappropriate and completely abusive manner," it read.

New York Knicks former player Charles Oakley (center) is removed from his seat by security as fans and the Knicks bench watch during the first quarter between the New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Clippers at Madison Square Garden. Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

"He has been ejected and is currently being arrested by the New York City Police Department. He was a great Knick and we hope he gets some help soon."

(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; editing by Sudipto Ganguly)

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