Phoenix Suns governor Robert Sarver has been suspended for one year and fined $10 million after the NBA concluded an investigation into allegations of workplace misconduct. ESPN first reported that Sarver’s rampant racism and misogyny throughout the organization in Nov. 2021, and now the NBA has finally issued their punishment.
The NBA found that Sarver said N-word at least five times to other employees when recounting statements made by others. The league also found that Sarver made inappropriate remarks to women working in the organization, including sex-related comments and observations on their physical appearance. Sarver also “engaged in inappropriate physical conduct” with male employees.
In addition to the suspension and fine, Sarver is also mandated to complete a training program focused on respect in the workplace. The league wrote that “Sarver engaged in conduct that clearly violated common workplace standards,” including unequal treatment of female employees, racist comments, and bullying.
Here’s the full release from the NBA:
The league interviewed 320 people and evaluated 80,000 documents during its investigation. It says the fine will go to organizations working to address gender and racial bias throughout society.
Somehow, Sarver was not banned from the league like former Clippers owner Donald Sterling.
We’ll update this story as it develops.
