After a week of onerous public pressure in the wake of a one year, $10 million suspension, Robert Sarver has decided to sell both Phoenix franchises – The Suns and Mercury.
Having bought the teams in 2004, the 60-year-old’s reign as majority owner will come to an end in a distasteful and embarrassing set of circumstances for himself and the franchises.
Robert Sarver has announced his decision to sell the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, presenting a wide range of responses from fans, players and media members.
Many players had come out and voiced their disapproval since the findings were handed down last week, including Suns point-guard Chris Paul, Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green, and most notably LeBron James. After Sarver announced his intention to sell the teams, James said he was ‘proud to be a part of a league committed to progress’.
I’m so proud to be a part of a league committed to progress! https://t.co/c89Ad7AKZO
— LeBron James (@KingJames) September 21, 2022
Others however, were much more willing to sink the boots in to the outgoing Sarver, particularly after his statement proved highly controversial. The businessmen seemed to void responsibility and instead, placed blame on the ‘current climate’ that wouldn’t allow him to atone for his behaviour.
"“But in our current unforgiving climate, it has become painfully clear that that is no longer possible – that whatever good I have done, or could still do, is outweighed by things I have said it the past. For those reasons, I am beginning the process of seeking buyers for the Suns and Mercury."
Sarver's statement is laughable apology bingo and reeks of arrogance. blaming the "current climate" for you having to accept consequences for 2 decades of harassing employees sounds like a tantrum thrown by someone who does not believe they did anything wrong.
— Mike Golic Jr (@mikegolicjr) September 21, 2022
"In our current unforgiving climate" Robert Sarver said in his statement, because, sure, after being exposed for misogynistic behavior, use of racist language and creating a hostile work environment, he's the victim.
— Chris Mannix (@SIChrisMannix) September 21, 2022
Don’t let the door hit ya on the way out, Robert Sarver.
— Bonta Hill (@BontaHill) September 21, 2022
On the other hand, many fans simply couldn’t hide their pleasure and joy at Sarver’s decision. His 18-year period was largely littered with disappointing losing seasons, though it feels ironic now that he leaves with Phoenix in as good an on-court position as they’ve been in sometime.
Phoenix @Suns fan comes to pop 🍾 outside Footprint Center to celebrate Robert Sarver announcing he will sell Suns & Mercury teams following NBA investigation.
— Nicole Grigg (@NicoleSGrigg) September 21, 2022
Ben tells me he’s been waiting for this day and rushed down to the arena after news this AM. #Sarver #Suns pic.twitter.com/ccy6JgP1xz
Despite handing down a penalty that most deemed unsuitable and not harsh enough, the NBA and commissioner Adam Silver released a statement saying “this was the right next step for the organization and the community.”
Whatever your thoughts or opinion on the situation, this is undoubtedly a major day in the history of the Suns and Mercury. What’s next for the franchises remains to be seen, but they’ll forge ahead without the shadow that Sarver had cast over them.