Soon to be, former Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver appears to be looking to sell his teams after allegations surface, according to ESPN. After the racist comments made by Sarver surfaced immediate action was taken place to assure there would be consequences. Sarver released a statement addressing the issue and announced his release of owning the Suns and Mercury.
Robert Sarver has announced that he has begun the process to sell both the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury franchises. pic.twitter.com/HqvNe0RNuH
— ESPN (@espn) September 21, 2022
“As a person of faith, I believe in redemption and the journey towards forgiveness,” Sarver expressed in a statement on Wednesday. “I anticipated that the one-year suspension from the commissioner would allow me the opportunity to reflect, refocus, and seek reconciliation. Furthermore, I aim to separate my personal controversies from the teams that hold a special place in the hearts of both myself and countless fans.
“However, in today’s harsh and uncompromising environment, it has become evident that achieving such separation is no longer feasible. The positive contributions I have made or could continue to make are overshadowed by my past remarks. For these reasons, I have initiated the process of finding potential buyers for the Suns and Mercury.”
Nba commissioner Adam Silver surprisingly was in full support of Sarver’s decision. Many leagues wouldn’t attack their players like that. However, Silver appears to be standing for his players and the mission of the league. Springing into action as Silver did is inspiring and hopefully sets the standard for other leagues throughout the world. One of the biggest faces who spoke out in support of Silver’s decision to stand with the players was LeBron James via Twitter.
I’m so proud to be a part of a league committed to progress! https://t.co/c89Ad7AKZO
— LeBron James (@KingJames) September 21, 2022
“This is the right next step for the organization and community,” Silver said.
Why is Robert Sarver Selling the Phoenix Suns?
Initially, after the racist remarks, Sarver was suspended for one year and fined $10 million. However, after receiving a ton of backlash from fans and even current players. Naturally, many believed he was pressured into selling the team. The scrutiny his team was under, as well as, himself was not going to be worth it. Not to mention, the distractions the team would have to deal with all season are based on Sarver’s actions.
“Words that I deeply regret now overshadow nearly two decades of building organizations that brought people together — and strengthened the Phoenix area — through the unifying power of professional men’s and women’s basketball,” Sarver wrote in his statement.
