David 'Doc' O'Connor new CEO of Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK -- Madison Square Garden named longtime talent agency executive David "Doc" O'Connor as its next chief executive.

O'Connor, a managing partner at Creative Artists Agency in New York, takes over for Tad Smith, who was hired to lead the auction house Sotheby's.

Madison Square Garden Co., which owns the New York Knicks, New York Rangersand theLiberty of the WNBA, said in March that it would separate its sports and entertainment operations from its media business.

The media unit runs the MSG Network, MSG+ and regional sports networks. The entertainment division produces and presents live productions such as the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, concerts and other events.

"We are extremely pleased to welcome Doc, who brings with him an extensive understanding of the entertainment and sports worlds, including deep industry relationships and a history of successfully creating platforms for growth," executive chairman James Dolan said. "We are confident that his expertise will be crucial to our efforts to strengthen our legendary brands."

O'Connor joined Creative Artists more than 30 years ago working its mailroom, advancing rapidly to become an agent in its motion picture department. In 1995, he took over daily oversight of the agency.

Creative Artists' roster includes the Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony, as well as Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant, Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Pauland Indiana Pacers forward Paul George.

O'Connor officially joins the company July 15.