Phoenix Suns Hit with Another Lawsuit Under New Ownership
The Phoenix Suns are once again in the spotlight for the wrong reasons, as yet another former employee has filed a lawsuit against the franchise. This time, the allegations stem from events that occurred under the team’s new ownership, led by billionaire Mat Ishbia.
The latest legal action, filed in federal court, accuses the Suns of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, marking a troubling continuation of workplace culture concerns that have surrounded the organization for years. The lawsuit paints a picture of systemic issues that allegedly persisted even after the NBA forced former owner Robert Sarver to sell the team following an investigation into a toxic work environment.
The plaintiff, a former team staffer, claims they experienced racial discrimination and professional retaliation after raising concerns about misconduct and inequality within the franchise. The employee further alleges that senior management failed to address multiple complaints, creating a hostile environment that ultimately led to wrongful termination.
This is not the first time the Suns have faced legal trouble. During Sarver’s tenure, several lawsuits and public complaints surfaced, leading to a damning league report and a $10 million fine. The sale of the team to Ishbia was viewed by many as a chance for a fresh start, but the new allegations suggest that deep-rooted issues may still linger.
A spokesperson for the Suns has denied the claims, stating that the organization is committed to maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace and that the allegations are “completely unfounded.” The team says it will vigorously defend itself in court.
With the NBA closely monitoring team culture in the wake of the Sarver scandal, this latest lawsuit poses another serious reputational risk for the franchise. As legal proceedings move forward, all eyes will be on the Suns to see whether this case is an isolated dispute or a sign of deeper structural problems that remain unaddressed despite the change in ownership.
