Phoenix, United States of America- The NBA has fined Robert Sarver, the owner of the Phoenix Suns and the Phoenix Mercury, US$10 million for racial slurring and mistreating female employees.
In addition, the NBA suspended Sarver for one year. The suspension and fine stem from an investigation on Sarver that started in 2021.
Led by New York-based law firm Wachtell Lipton, the investigation included interviews with more than 320 current and former employees as well as Sarver. It also examined more than 80 000 documents and other materials, including emails, text messages and videos.
As part of the ban, Sarver, won’t be able to attend any NBA or WNBA facilities or take part in any business activities involving his teams.
“The statements and conduct described in the findings of the independent investigation are troubling and disappointing.
We believe the outcome is the right one, taking into account all the facts, circumstances and context brought to light by the comprehensive investigation and our commitment to upholding proper standards in NBA workplaces.
I am hopeful that the NBA community will use this opportunity to reflect on what this great game means to people everywhere and the values of equality, respect and inclusion that it strives to represent. Regardless of position, power or intent, we all need to recognize the corrosive and hurtful impact of racially insensitive and demeaning language and behavior. 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,” said NBA commissioner Adam Silver.
However, though the NBA hit Sarver with the maximum fine possible under its current rules, the league’s report made no findings that his behavior was motivated by racial or gender-based animus.
“Good leadership requires accountability. For the Suns and Mercury organizations, that begins with me. While I disagree with some of the particulars of the NBA’s report, I would like to apologize for my words and actions that offended our 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,” said Sarver.
In 2014, ex-Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling, was banned for life from the NBA after being recorded using racist language during a private conversation.
