The owner of Phoenix’s National Basketball Association and Women’s National Basketball Association teams is accused of behaving in a racist and misogynistic manner throughout his 17-year tenure.
Robert Sarver, who owns the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, allegedly used racist slurs and engaged in lewd and misogynistic behavior with staff and employees, according to a report citing more than 70 current and former employees.
Sarver’s actions forged a “toxic and sometimes hostile workplace,” the employees said.
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Sarver reportedly referred to his employees as his “property” and used the N-word when asking why Golden State Warriors player Draymond Green can say it, according to the report.
“You can’t say that,” former Suns head coach Earl Watson reportedly told the owner.
“Why?” Sarver said. “Draymond Green says [N-word].”
“You can’t f****** say that,” Watson said.
During meetings, Sarver allegedly discussed receiving oral sex from his wife, ESPN reported.
Female employees would also be on the receiving end of Sarver’s verbal abuse, a former female marketing employee said.
“I think as women, when we come into sports, unfortunately, we’re resigned to the fact that we’ll be sexually harassed at some point,” she said, according to the report. “But the part that was the worst for me is the verbal abuse and feeling like I wasn’t human.”
Sarver’s alleged behavior is embarrassing, another Sun’s owner said.
“The level of misogyny and racism is beyond the pale,” the owner said.
Sarver denied all allegations against him.
“I’ve never called anyone or any group of people the N-word, or referred to anyone or any group of people by the N-word, either verbally or in writing,” Sarver reportedly said. “I don’t use that word. It is abhorrent and ugly and denigrating and against everything I believe in.”
“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,” NBA Executive Vice President, Communications Mike Bass said in a statement shared with the Washington Examiner.
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“The NBA and WNBA remain committed to providing a respectful and inclusive workplace for all employees,” he added. “Once the investigation is completed, its findings will provide the basis for any league action.”
