In a lawsuit that has drawn attention in the sports world, the Phoenix Suns are facing claims of harassment, racial discrimination, retaliation, and wrongful termination by Andrea Trischan, a former employee. Trischan, who served as the program manager for diversity, equity, and inclusion, has filed for $60 million in damages against the organization.
The Allegations
Andrea Trischan's complaints stem from her tenure with the Suns, which spanned from September 2022 to July 2023. Central to her allegations are issues involving the Suns' newly established diversity council and her experiences within the organization. According to the lawsuit, Trischan "endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership," as stated by her attorney, Sheree Wright.
Trischan's formal complaints were initially dismissed by both the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Arizona Attorney General's civil rights division in November, citing insufficient information. Nevertheless, the lawsuit has persisted, focusing scrutiny on the internal dynamics of one of the NBA's prominent franchises.
Suns' Response
The Phoenix Suns have firmly denied the allegations laid out by Trischan. Stacey Mitch, Senior Vice President of Communications for the Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, dismissed the claims, stating, "Her claims have been without merit from Day 1, and now this lawsuit, in which she is seeking $60M, is based on the same claims that were just dismissed. We are fully confident the courts will agree her story is completely fabricated."
Additionally, the organization defended the purpose and structure of its diversity council. According to a statement released by the Suns, "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."
Leadership Changes
During Trischan's employment and subsequent departure, the Suns underwent significant changes in their executive ranks. Two of the executives she named, Kyle Pottinger and Melisa Goldenberg, are no longer with the organization. Additionally, Jason Rowley, who previously held the position of team president and CEO, resigned in February 2023. These leadership transitions add another layer to the evolving narrative of the Suns' internal environment during this period.
Performance Concerns
Prior to her departure in July, Trischan was placed on a performance improvement plan in late May, a detail that is often indicative of formal concerns about an employee's job performance. The Suns have not publicly detailed the reasons for this plan, but its timing suggests it is a key aspect of the ongoing litigation.
The legal battle Andrea Trischan has initiated against the Phoenix Suns places the NBA franchise under a microscope, examining both their internal culture and their handling of diversity and inclusion policies. As the case unfolds, it could set important precedents for how sports organizations manage and address such critical issues within their corporate structures.