BROOKLYN, New York With the New York Liberty’s 2015 preseason underway, additions to the league have caused a stir. After eight years, Isiah Thomas is back at Madison Square Garden, as the president and pending part-owner of the New York Liberty. Although Thomas has been hired by the Liberty, his ownership approval is still pending with the WNBA.
In 2007, a lawsuit was placed on Thomas by former executive, Anucha Browne Sanders which resulted in a judgement of $11.6 million. According to Sports Illustrated the jury ruled that the New York Knicks erroneously fired Browne Sanders, after she complained about the sexual harassment by Thomas. Thomas has moved on from the situation, telling Sports Illustrated “I’ve always maintained my innocence, moved on from that. Our organization has moved on from that.”
The public is more than shocked with the decision to bring Thomas back to Madison Square Garden, and in to the WNBA. The Women’s Sports Foundation posted a petition on change.org, asking for 1500 signatures for the denial of Thomas.
“It is incomprehensible that a man found guilty of sexual harassment — and who shows no public remorse — will serve as a leader of a women’s sports team” the WSF state in the petition. The WSF proceeded to send a statement to the WNBA’s Board of Governors, “Your message to those girls if you approve Mr. Thomas as Liberty President is that sexual harassment – inexcusable behavior in any workplace – is not only tolerated but is instead rewarded with executive offices and big contracts” the statements says.
The WNBA will have to take the safety of executives and players in to consideration, although Thomas was not found personally liable; the allegations alone should send a red flag.