By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Phoenix Suns officially released a statement responding to an unpublished ESPN story regarding reported accusations against team owner, Robert Sarver.
“We understand that an outlet is considering publishing a proposed story that makes completely baseless claims against the Suns organization concerning a variety of topics,” the team noted, “Documentary evidence in our possession and eyewitness accounts directly contradict the reporter’s accusations, and we are preparing our response to his questions. We urge everyone not to rush to judgment here. Especially based on lies, innuendo, and a false narrative to attack our organization and its leadership.”
Per an earlier report tweeted by Jordan Schultz, the NBA is preparing a massive story accusing Sarver of racism, sexism, and sexual harassment in a series of incidents. The league is considering removing him from the ownership of the Arizona franchise, as added.
“I am wholly shocked by some of the allegations purported by ESPN about me, or about the Phoenix Suns and Mercury organizations. While I can’t begin to know how to respond to some of the vague suggestions made by mostly anonymous voices, I can certainly tell you that some of the claims I find completely repugnant to my nature and to the character of the Suns/Mercury workplace and I can tell you they never, ever happened,” reacted Sarver in a press release.
“First and foremost, I reject any insinuation of personal or organizational racism or gender discrimination. I despise language that disrespects any individuals, regardless of race, gender, preference, or choice. Such language has no place in business or at home in what I consider Suns and Mercury families. I am proud of our record of diversity and inclusion on both teams—whether on the court or in the front office,” he added, “I don’t begin to know how to prove that something DIDN’T happen, and it is difficult to erase or forget ugly accusations once they are made. Even hints of racism or sexism in our culture today are toxic and damaging and should not be lightly raised. I categorically deny any and all suggestions that I used disparaging language related to race or gender. I would like to think that my actions and public record regarding race, gender, or discrimination of any kind, over a lifetime in business and community service, will adequately answer any questions anyone might raise about my commitment to equality and fairness.”
“None of what’s been said describes the Robert Sarver I know, respect and like – it just doesn’t,” commented GM James Jones.
Former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling was forced to sell the team and banned for life by the NBA in 2014 due to racist comments. A similar outcome was indicated by the report but turned down by the Suns ahead of the story to be posted by ESPN.
Sarver, 59, purchased the Suns in 2004 for $401M. In 2016, he also bought the Spanish football team Mallorca for €20M.