NBA Slaps Massive Fine & Suspension On Phoenix Suns Owner

After a lengthy investigation into inappropriate conduct by Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver, the NBA has announced that they are suspending him for one year and have fined him $10M. 

The NBA has announced Suns owner Robert Sarver has been suspended for one year, after interviewing 320 people and reviewing 80,000 documents, including emails, texts and videos

— Gerald Bourguet (@GeraldBourguet) September 13, 2022

The NBA's investigators interviewed 320 people and reviewed 80,000 emails, texts and videos, in arriving at the decision. 

Key findings, NBA says: Robert Sarver said the N-word at least 5 times when recounting statement of others; made sex-related, inappropriate comments about physical appearance of females; inappropriate physical conduct toward men; engaged in harsh treatment. https://t.co/muOWNWhvI9

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 13, 2022

Among its key findings:

• Sarver used the N-word at least five times when recounting the statements of others
• He made sex-related, inappropriate comments about the physical appearance of female employees and other women
• He engaged in inappropriate physical conduct toward men
• He engaged in demeaning and harsh treatment of employees

Sarver will not be allowed to be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility, or attend any games, practices or events. He is also not permitted to have involvement in the business or basketball operations. 

Sarver will also have to complete a workplace conduct training program.

The NBA today issued the following statement: pic.twitter.com/jjlBK771PT

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) September 13, 2022

Shams Charania reports that the NBA says it will donate Robert Sarver's $10 million fine to organizations that are committed to addressing race and gender-based issues in and outside the workplace.

 Photos: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports, MICHAEL CHOW / USA TODAY NETWORK