Oakley says he's not an alcoholic, helps others battling addiction
Charles Oakley may be a lot of things, but he's not an alcoholic - at least according to Oak himself.
New York Knicks owner James Dolan suggested Friday that Oakley has behavioral problems that may stem from alcoholism, and that once the retired player gets those issues under control, his ban from MSG will be lifted.
However, Oakley insists he isn't an alcoholic. In fact, he tries to help others who are battling the addiction, including former Nets player Jayson Williams.
"Dolan might think because I go to volunteer at Rebound Institute treatment centers with Jayson that I'm a client," Oakley told The New York Post's Marc Berman on Saturday. "I'm just supporting the amazing work Jayson is doing. I'm not an alcoholic but Jayson is."
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The Knicks legend became friends with Williams during the '90s, and continues to support him in his fight with alcoholism. He also lends a hand at Epiphany Treatment Center, a Florida-based rehab center where he cooks for patients. Through charitable initiatives, Oak helps raise awareness and money for programs aimed at treating alcohol abuse.
Dolan, a recovering alcoholic himself, said the Knicks would provide support to Oakley to address his "problem" if he reaches out to them.
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