Adam Silver Releases Statement on Robert Sarver Investigation

NBA commissioner Adam Silver says he's hopeful the NBA community will reflect on the events that have transpired.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver has released the following statement on Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver concluding the league's investigation into allegations of sexism and racism among numerous other complaints towards him:

“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 of this 18-year period 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.”

Early Tuesday, the league announced a one year suspension from both the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury along with a $10 million fine for Sarver after the initial investigation began last November. 

Outlines of the punishment:

• Mr. Sarver must, during his suspension, complete a training program focused on respect and appropriate conduct in the workplace.

• Mr. Sarver is fined $10 million, the maximum permitted by the NBA Constitution & By-Laws. The NBA will donate these funds to organizations that are committed to addressing race and gender-based issues in and outside the workplace.

• Additionally, the Suns/Mercury organization must fulfill a series of requirements for workplace improvements set forth and monitored by the NBA.

Key findings from the report:

• Mr. Sarver, on at least five occasions during his tenure with the Suns/Mercury organization, repeated the N-word when recounting the statements of others.

• Mr. Sarver engaged in instances of inequitable conduct toward female employees, made many sex-related comments in the workplace, made inappropriate comments about the physical appearance of female employees and other women, and on several occasions engaged in inappropriate physical conduct toward male employees.

• Mr. Sarver engaged in demeaning and harsh treatment of employees, including by yelling and cursing at them.

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