Isiah Thomas will not be returning to the New York Knicks after all.
Thomas said Wednesday in a statement he was declining a position as a consultant with the franchise he ran for 4 1/2 years because it may not be legal.
"After speaking with commissioner Stern and Knicks executives, it has become apparent that my new agreement violates certain NBA bylaws," Thomas said. "Because of this, I have decided to rescind my contract with the team."
The Knicks announced the agreement with Thomas on Friday and it was quickly criticized. League personnel are not allowed contact with players who are not yet eligible for the draft, which Thomas would have in his role as Florida International University coach.
Thomas could have chosen to leave that job and keep the Knicks position. Instead, he thanked the organization for giving him another chance.
Thomas also blamed himself for the Knicks' poor performance while he was team president from December 2003 through April 2008. He was also the coach the final two seasons.
"One of the biggest regrets of my life is that the Knicks didn't perform up to the standards the fans had every right to expect while I was in charge. I take full responsibility for that," he said. "I was very much looking forward to this unique opportunity to help the organization do what I do best: find basketball talent. I wish the team nothing but success in the future."
Copyright 2010 AP News
