Andrea Trischan has thrust the Phoenix Suns into the spotlight by filing a formal complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Arizona attorney general's civil rights division. Trischan, who held the position of program manager for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) from September 2022 to July 2023, is alleging wrongful termination and demanding $60 million in damages.
Allegations and Complaints
During her tenure, Trischan claims she endured a hostile work environment, marred by overt racist comments. She voiced her concerns about the organization’s decision to appoint several executives accused of misconduct to a newly established diversity council. These apprehensions were communicated directly to Kim Corbitt, the head of HR for the Suns. She further alleges she was subjected to retaliation, culminating in her being placed on a performance improvement plan in late May 2023 and ultimately being fired in July 2023.
Her attorney, Sheree Wright, argues that despite Trischan reporting these issues to HR and executive leadership, they went unaddressed. "… [Trischan] endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership," Wright said.
The Suns' Response
The Phoenix Suns have categorically denied any wrongdoing. Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of communications for the Suns and Mercury, was unequivocal in her rebuttal. "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. Mitch further dismissed Trischan's claims, labeling them as an attempt to capitalize on past incidents. "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," she added.
Mitch was also confident that the legal proceedings would vindicate the Suns. "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," she asserted.
Context of Allegations
The allegations emerge at a turbulent time for the Suns, who have been undergoing significant organizational changes. The NBA had previously suspended the team’s former owner, Robert Sarver, following findings of inappropriate workplace conduct. Jason Rowley, the former team president and CEO, resigned in February 2023. This was followed by Mat Ishbia finalizing his purchase of the team the same month. Against this backdrop, Trischan's complaint adds a new layer of scrutiny to the organization.
Commitment to Review
The Suns maintain that they are actively participating in the ongoing review by the Arizona Civil Rights Division. "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," a Suns spokesperson remarked.
Regarding the diversity council, another Suns spokesperson sought to correct any misconceptions. "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 elaborated.
As the legal battle unfolds, the Phoenix Suns find themselves navigating complex terrain, balancing a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace while defending against serious accusations. The final judgments in these proceedings will undoubtedly have ramifications for both the organization and Andrea Trischan, as the sports world watches closely.