The Inquirer has confirmed Howard Eskin’s report that Adam Aron is out as Sixers CEO. It’s still unclear whether Aron will retain his minority ownership stake in the team.

Meanwhile, the Sixers are reportedly close to hiring former Madison Square Garden President and Knicks exec Scott O’Neil: [NJ.com]

According to Frank Isola of the New York Daily News, the Sixers are close to hiring Scott O’Neil. O’Neil, who last worked for the New York Knicks, would hold an executive position within the team.

The report has not been yet confirmed by the team.

O’Neil unexpectedly stepped down as President of Madison Square Garden in September, with many speculating his decision came down to the Knick’s continued relationship with Isiah Thomas. O’Neil started with the Knicks in more of a marketing role, but became more and more involved in the basketball operations.

He also spent some times with the Eagles, apparently: [Tech Zulu]

Scott O’Neil, is a former president of the Madison Square Garden. O’Neil was senior executive for pre-eminent sports and entertainment brands such as Madison Square Garden (the New York Knicks, New York Rangers and New York Liberty), the Philadelphia Eagles, and the National Basketball Association.

Cool, I guess.