The NBA on Tuesday suspended Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver for one year and fined him the maximum possible $10 million for ill-treating his employees.
Sarver, 60, who also owns the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, “engaged in conduct that clearly violated common workplace standards, including the use of racially insensitive language, unequal treatment of female employees, sex-related statements and conduct, and harsh treatment of employees that on occasion constituted bullying,” per the investigation report.
Dos and don’ts
The one-year suspension means that Sarver can’t be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility; he can’t attend any NBA or WNBA event or activity, including games, practices, or business meetings; and can’t represent his teams in any public or private capacity.
He must also complete a training program on respect and appropriate workplace conduct.
“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 when every employee feels comfortable and valued,” Sarver said.