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Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver was suspended for one year and fined $10 million by the National Basketball Association (NBA) on Tuesday following an independent investigation into allegations over workplace misconduct.
The investigation found that Sarver, who bought the Suns and the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury in 2004, engaged in inequitable conduct toward female employees, including “sex-related comments” and inappropriate remarks on female employees’ appearances.
Sarver, who cooperated fully with the investigation process, was also found to have used a racial slur on at least five occasions “when recounting the statements of others.”
“The statements and conduct described in the findings of the independent investigation are troubling and disappointing,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.
“We believe the outcome is the right one, taking into account all the facts, circumstances, and context brought to light by the comprehensive investigation of this 18-year period and our commitment to upholding proper standards in NBA workplaces.”
The NBA commissioned its own investigation following an ESPN article in November 2021 that detailed allegations of racism and misogyny during Sarver’s tenure. Sarver denied the allegations and said he welcomed an investigation.
ESPN, citing a statement from Sarver that it obtained from the Suns, said the owner disagreed with some of the particulars of the NBA report, but wanted to apologize for his words and actions that offended employees.
“I take full responsibility for what I have done. I am sorry for causing this pain, and these errors in judgment are not consistent with my personal philosophy or my values,” Sarver said in the report.
“I accept the consequences of the NBA’s decision. This moment is an opportunity for me to demonstrate a capacity to learn and grow as we continue to build a working culture where every employee feels comfortable and valued.”
Suns Legacy Partners, which manages and operates Phoenix‘s NBA and WNBA teams, said in a statement it is committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.
As a result of his suspension, Sarver cannot be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility, have any involvement with the business or basketball operations of either club, or attend or participate in meetings of either league’s board.
During his suspension, Sarver must also complete a training program focused on respect and appropriate conduct in the workplace.
“Regardless of position, power or intent, we all need to recognize the corrosive and hurtful impact of racially insensitive and demeaning language and behavior,” said Silver.
“On behalf of the entire NBA, I apologize to all of those impacted by the misconduct outlined in the investigators’ report. We must do better.”
The investigation also substantiated instances of workplace misconduct by Suns employees that were not directly related to Sarver and a lack of proper organizational policies and controls.
Among other things, the investigation found instances of racial insensitivity, mistreatment of female employees, inappropriate commentary related to sex or sexual orientation, and disrespectful communications.
The investigation also concluded that the Suns‘ human resources function was historically ineffective and not a trusted resource for employees who were subjected to acts of improper workplace conduct.
Most of the Suns’ employees who engaged in these acts of misconduct over the 18-year period of investigation are no longer employed by the organization.
The investigation included interviews with 320 current and former employees and Sarver as well as the evaluation of over 80,000 documents and other materials, including emails and text messages, and videos.
Copyright 2022 Thomson/Reuters