*some information courtesy of bleacherreport.com
Robert Sarver, the disgraced Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury owner has stated that he has begun the process of selling both franchises. The long-time owner was found to have “engaged in conduct that clearly violated common workplace standards,” including using a racial slur multiple times, bullying and inequitable treatment of female employees.
Sarver released a statement on the issue Wednesday. He stated:
“As a man of faith, I believe in atonement and the path to forgiveness. I expected that the commissioner’s one-year suspension would provide the time for me to focus, make amends and remove my personal controversy from the teams that I and so many fans love.
“But in our current unforgiving climate, it has become painfully clear that that is no longer possible – that whatever good I have done, or could still do, is outweighed by things I have said in the past. For those reasons, I am beginning the process of seeking buyers for the Suns and Mercury.”
PayPal has also pulled their sponsorship of the Suns. Their deal set to expire at the end of the current season. This was done as a retaliation by the company in condemnation of Sarver’s actions.
The NBA announced the Sarver will be fined ten million dollars and suspended for a year. Sarver was apart of the organization(s) for 17 years.
This post will be updated with more information when available.
