The NBA has launched an investigation into Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver, following an explosive report claiming he has created a toxic work environment.
According to an ESPN story by senior national NBA writer Baxter Holmes, over 70 former and current Suns employees have heard Sarver say the N-word on multiple occasions, despite being asked to stop. In one instance, Sarver was upset that a Suns player had been hit with a technical foul for using the N-word on the court, despite Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors using it without consequence. Sarver was reported as asking, “Why does Draymond Green get to run up the court and say n—–?” He reportedly said it again after former head coach Earl Watson told him not to use the word. Those who worked with Sarver also reported that he often used the N-word while recounting stories he’d heard amongst players.
In addition to racially offensive comments, Suns employees told ESPN that Sarver regularly made extremely inappropriate sexual comments. One example is when he used a staff meeting to speak openly about his wife performing oral sex on him and the condom size that he wears. He also asks Suns players about their sex lives.
Female employees revealed male employees have harassed them about their clothing and even asked how many people they’ve slept with, all while Sarver turned a blind eye.
The team owner has denied all allegations, as well as Suns CEO Jason Rowley, who claims Holmes “twisted statements and circumstances to fit his preconceived narrative.”
Though NBA spokesperson Mike Bass confirmed that the league had not received any formal misconduct complaints against the organization, they have directed a legal team to examine these allegations closely.
“The allegations contained in today’s ESPN article are extremely serious, and we have directed the Wachtell Lipton law firm to commence a comprehensive investigation,” Bass said.
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