From a 2007 rally to "Give Isiah Thomas The Pink Slip" (AP)

After the NBA ruled that the Knicks' (re)hiring of Isiah Thomas as a consultant, while Thomas would remain coach of Florida International University, was against league policy, Thomas rescinded his acceptance of the gig, "After speaking with [NBA] Commissioner [David] Stern and Knicks executives, it has become apparent that my new agreement violates certain NBA bylaws. Because of this, I have decided to rescind my contract with the team. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Jim Dolan, Donnie Walsh, Mike D’Antoni and the entire Knicks organization, and I want to thank them for affording me this opportunity."

While the Post says the NBA's decision "[saves] Jim Dolan from himself," it seems that Dolan doesn't want to be saved: Dolan said in a later statement, "Although I'm disappointed that Isiah will not be working with the Knicks as a consultant, I continue to believe in his basketball knowledge, including his ability to judge talent. He's a good friend of mine and of the organization and I will continue to solicit his views. He will always have strong ties to me and the team."

One note: Thomas actually had a teeny mea culpa for his horrible "official" years with the Knicks, "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. 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.”