In a recent turn of events, Andrea Trischan, a former program manager of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) for the Phoenix Suns, has formally filed a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Arizona attorney general's office's civil rights division. Serving from September 2022 until her termination in July 2023, Trischan is alleging wrongful termination and is seeking a staggering $60 million in damages.
Allegations and Concerns
Trischan's filing follows a series of events that have raised significant questions about the Suns' workplace culture, particularly concerning diversity and inclusion. According to Trischan, she was placed on a performance improvement plan in late May 2023, a move that eventually led to her dismissal two months later. During her tenure, Trischan voiced concerns about the organization's decision to appoint several executives accused of misconduct to a newly established diversity council.
“Ms. Trischan's claims regarding the diversity council are misleading,” said a Suns spokesperson. “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.”
History of Workplace Misconduct
The backdrop to Trischan's allegations includes the problematic history of the Suns under former owner Robert Sarver, who was suspended by the NBA due to findings of inappropriate workplace conduct. It was within this context that Trischan reportedly endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment, issues that she claims went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership. Her attorney, Sheree Wright, highlighted that Trischan “endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership.”
The Suns’ Response
The Phoenix Suns have vehemently denied any wrongdoing. Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of communications for the Suns and Mercury, stated, “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 went further to say, “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 also expressed confidence in the judicial process, stating, “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.”
Leadership Changes
The period leading up to Trischan’s termination saw significant changes in the Suns' organization. Jason Rowley, the former team president and CEO, resigned in February 2023, marking a significant shift in the team's leadership. This change coincided with Mat Ishbia's purchase of the team, which was finalized the same month. Despite these leadership changes, the Suns committed to participating in the ongoing review by the Arizona Civil Rights Division (ACRD). A spokesperson for the Suns affirmed, “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.”
Moving Forward
As the investigation progresses, all eyes will be on the outcome of the review by the Arizona Civil Rights Division. The Suns organization has pledged full cooperation, while Trischan seeks justice and substantial compensation. This case underscores the broader issues of workplace culture and the critical importance of ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all employees. Regardless of the outcome, the allegations have undoubtedly sparked a crucial conversation on diversity, equity, and inclusion within professional sports organizations.