Isiah Thomas denies harassment charges

NEW YORK, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- New York Knicks President Isiah Thomas has publicly denied sexual harassment charges leveled against him by a former team vice president.

Anucha Browne Sanders claimed in a federal lawsuit that she was fired by the Knicks after she complained Thomas repeatedly made lewd comments to and about her and propositioned her for sex. Prior to Wednesday night's game against Sacramento, Thomas denied the allegation, the New York Times reported.

"I did not harass Anucha; I did not discriminate against her; I did not fire her; I did not participate in any discussion that led to her being fired; she did not even work for me," Thomas read from a prepared statement.

"I will not allow her or anybody else, man or woman, to use me as a pawn for their financial gain."

Madison Square Garden Sports President, Steve Mills, also denied Browne Sanders' allegations.

"I was stunned to learn that while she was still employed at MSG, she demanded $6.5 million to leave quietly," said Mills. "Her threat was the only threat I was privy to."

Browne Sanders earlier told reporters the defendants' accusation that she was motivated by money was "a diversion," the Times said.