Complaint Filed by Former Diversity Manager Against Phoenix Suns
Andrea Trischan, the former program manager of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) for the Phoenix Suns, has filed a formal complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Arizona attorney general's civil rights division. Trischan, who served in her role from September 2022 to July 2023, is alleging wrongful termination and is seeking $60 million in damages from the organization.
Trischan’s legal action comes in the wake of the NBA's decision to suspend the Suns' former owner, Robert Sarver, following findings of inappropriate workplace conduct. Through her attorney, Sheree Wright, Trischan claims she endured overtly racist comments and a hostile work environment during her tenure, conditions she says went unaddressed despite being reported to the Human Resources department and executive leadership.
Allegations of Hostile Work Environment
The complaint describes how Trischan voiced her concerns about the organization's decision to appoint executives accused of misconduct to a newly established diversity council. Trischan communicated these concerns to Kim Corbitt, the head of HR for the Suns. Subsequently, she was placed on a performance improvement plan in late May 2023 and was ultimately terminated in July 2023.
Trischan’s allegations add to the ongoing scrutiny of the Suns' workplace culture. The Phoenix Suns have categorically denied any wrongdoing. Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of communications for both the Suns and the Mercury, responded strongly to the claims. "A former employee who last worked for the organization in 2023 was terminated after less than 10 months due to repeated failure to perform her job duties," Mitch stated.
Strong Denials from the Suns
Mitch further argued that Trischan's allegations were unfounded and financially motivated, accusing her of leveraging past reports to support her claims. "This individual filed a baseless charge with a state agency and is now trying to use ESPN reporting from 2022, specific to previous ownership, to make egregious claims in order to support her ridiculous demand for $60 million from the Suns organization," Mitch added.
A spokesperson for the Suns also addressed Trischan's concerns regarding the diversity council. "Ms. Trischan's claims regarding the diversity council are misleading. The purpose of the diversity council, which is comprised of the entire executive team and other leaders in the organization, is to listen to the diversity data and information on DE&I initiatives to continue to further the organization's DE&I commitment," the spokesperson explained.
Change in Leadership Amid Turmoil
Adding another layer to the narrative, the team's leadership has seen significant changes in recent months. Jason Rowley, the team's former president and CEO, resigned in February 2023. Concurrently, Mat Ishbia finalized his purchase of the team. These changes in ownership and leadership reflect a period of transition, intensifying the scrutiny under which the Suns find themselves.
In response to Trischan’s complaints, the Suns have committed to full cooperation with the Arizona Civil Rights Division's review. "The Suns continue to participate in the [Arizona Civil Rights Division] review in good faith. We are confident that after the ACRD completes its review of Ms. Trischan's charge, the ACRD will confirm that Ms. Trischan's claims are factually and legally baseless," asserted a Suns spokesperson.
Awaiting Legal Proceedings
While the Suns have made clear their position that Trischan’s claims are without merit, the final determination will rest with the courts and the Arizona Civil Rights Division. "To be clear, this individual is making false claims in an attempt to gain tens of millions of dollars. We are confident the courts will find no merit to these claims and quickly resolve this matter. The Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury are creating a world-class organization for every employee. We will not let opportunists succeed in their attempts to manipulate the media and use years-old reporting to seek financial gain," Mitch concluded.
As Trischan seeks compensation for what she refers to as wrongful termination and a hostile work environment, the spotlight remains firmly on the Phoenix Suns. The unfolding legal battle will undoubtedly be closely watched, not only by those within the organization but also by the broader sports community.