Knicks bypassing C of C training camp this summer

After 17 years of conducting their fall training camp at the College of Charleston, the New York Knicks are taking what is at least a one-year break from Charleston.

The Knicks appear close to completing arrangements to hold their one-week fall camp, which begins Oct. 1, at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

One reason for the move is that construction of C of C's new basketball arena adjacent to the existing John Kresse Arena has made it impractical for the Knicks to conduct this year's camp in Charleston.

"With the new building and the construction, it's not feasible," said Charleston coach Bobby Cremins. "And they like to change sites every now and then. With our construction going on, we couldn't host anybody."

The Carolina First Center, Charleston's new arena, is scheduled to be completed in time for the start of the Cougars' season, but not early enough for the Knicks' fall camp.

Former Cougars coach John Kresse was instrumental in orchestrating the deal that brought the Knicks to Charleston.

The Knicks pay C of C approximately $7,000 for the use of the school's facilities.

The team is reportedly still working on its deal with Skidmore College.

And it's possible that the Knicks could return to Charleston in future years. Donnie Walsh, who was hired in April as Knicks' president, basketball operations, has strong ties to the state and to Cremins.

Walsh was an assistant coach under Frank McGuire at South Carolina during Cremins' playing days for the Gamecocks and the two maintain a close friendship.

"I hope so," Cremins said, when asked about the Knicks' possible return to Charleston. "We love having them. It's great for the city. If we can't get them, maybe we can entice another team. We'll certainly try, because we love having them. It's great seeing them walk around King Street. Our kids love it. So it's too bad they're not coming this year because it's a big bonus for us."

Reach Charles Bennett at cbennett@postandcourier.com.