Phoenix Suns NBA franchise owner Robert Sarver, backed by executives at his club, has strongly denied allegations of racism, sexism and sexual harassment directed at him, to appear in an ESPN investigation.

Robert Sarver blasted "lies, innuendos and a false story", uttered according to him by the giant of the American sports media which is part of the broadcasters of the matches of the North American Basketball League, intended to "attack the club" finalist of the last championship, in a long press release, in a firm tone, released on Friday.

"Disgusting allegations contrary to my nature"

"I am totally shocked by some of the allegations, relayed by ESPN and made against me or aimed at the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury," whose team plays in the WNBA women's league, he said. “Although I cannot yet know how to respond to some of the vague suggestions made, most of them made on condition of anonymity, I can certainly tell you that these allegations, which I find completely repugnant and contrary to my nature and to the existing framework within the Suns / Mercury, have never, ever been realized, ”Sarver continued.

“I reject any insinuation of personal or structural racism, of sex discrimination.

I despise any language that lacks respect to anyone, regardless of their race, gender, preferences or choices, ”he said.

Proven allegations of racist behavior could have serious repercussions for any owner of an NBA team.

In 2014, Donald Sterling, who owned the Los Angeles Clippers, was fined $ 2.5 million and banned for life from the league, after being recorded making racist comments, and the proceedings then forced the sale of the club.

Support

The president of the Phoenix Suns, Jason Rowley, told him that the ESPN article, as yet unpublished, was "completely scandalous and false."

“This does not correspond at all to Robert Sarver, with whom I have worked for 15 years.

He is not racist and he is not sexist, ”he continued.

Suns general manager James Jones, who is Black, echoed: “Nothing that has been said describes the Robert Sarver that I know, respect and appreciate - it's just not the case ".

ESPN could not be reached for comment.

Sarver, 59, bought the Suns in 2004 for $ 401 million.

The value of the franchise is now estimated at $ 1.55 billion.

Sport

Racist remarks: Clippers owner Donald Sterling suspended for life by NBA

Sport

NBA: 48 hours from the resumption, about 96% of players have been vaccinated

  • Bullying

  • Phoenix

  • Racism

  • Sexism

  • NBA

  • Sport

  • Basketball