" Stephon Marbury, in his first interview since being put on waivers Tuesday, defended his five-year stint with the Knicks that featured just one playoff berth and multiple controversies.

"One person can't bring you to the playoffs or win a championship," Marbury told The Post yesterday.

"Michael Jordan proved it. You need a team to do it. I respect the fans, but it takes a team to do it, not an individual. People want to put the blame on me, that's fine."

Marbury said he cannot talk about the Celtics or any team he may join until he clears waivers tomorrow morning and is technically a free agent.

He has been ordered by the Players' Association to limit his comments until then. Sources say Marbury will sign with the Celtics tomorrow. The chances of him being claimed are remote.

"I'm happy about moving forward," Marbury said. "That's all I wanted to do from the beginning. I can't tell you how happy I am now."

Marbury and the Knicks reached a buyout agreement Tuesday during what was supposed to be a hearing on his $400,000 fine for allegedly refusing to play in November.

In the settlement, Marbury waived his appeal on the $400,000. In addition, it is believed he gave back nearly $1.5 million of his salary - up from his original $1 million offer. "