Starting at Point Guard...#11.6...Isiah Thomas...
The jury came back yesterday with an award of $11.6M in the harassment case of Anucha Browne Sanders against Madison Square Garden, James Dolan and Isiah Thomas which was higher than the amount she requested when the lawsuit was first presented.
Whether you sided with Ms. Sanders or the "James Gang", the case brought out negative views for both sides as the depositions were made public as well as some of the testimony that was released.
If the jury sided with the defense, then this could be perceived that this was another case of where athletes, albeit retired, act and are treated as they are above the law. See Michael Vick.
As someone who worked for one of the sports leagues for 9 years, unfortunately I saw this attitude a few times over the years first hand and I was hoping that this would not continue. However, I am unsure if the evidence and the case presented is worthy of that size award.
While the decision will be appealed, this outcome should have an impact in team front offices around the various leagues who employ athletes in various capcaities that think that they are above the law.