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The Phoenix Suns have quickly responded to the rumors surrounding team owner Robert Sarver.
On Friday, rumors began to swirl that a bombshell report could soon be on the way accusing Sarver of racism, sexism, and sexual harassment. However, the Suns immediately issued a statement about the “false narrative” and “baseless claims” surrounding Sarver.
The Suns said the accusations are “based on lies” and that they have evidence to prove the allegations are false.
“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,” a statement from the team read. “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.”
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) October 22, 2021
Sarver issued a statement of his own adamantly denying the allegations against him.
“I am wholly shocked by some of the allegations purported by ESPN about me, personally, 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,” Sarver said.
“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… 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.”
Additional statements were released by Jason Rowley, President and CEO, on behalf of Suns Legacy Partners, LLC, and General Manager James Jones.
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) October 22, 2021
There is no word on when the report could drop, but it is very clear that the Suns plan on aggressively defending the organization and Sarver against the allegations.
