Robert Sarver, the owner of the Phoenix Suns, allegedly said the N-word several times in 2016, ESPN reported.  

The alleged incident occurred early into the 2016/2017 NBA season and after a loss against the Warrior, then-Suns head coach Earl Watson told ESPN.  

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“You know, why does Draymond Green get to run up the court and say [N-word],” Sarver, who is white, allegedly said. He reportedly repeated the racial slur multiple times, Watson allegedly said in the Sun’s locker room.  

Watson told Sarver that he could not say the N-word, with Sarver replying, “Why? Draymond Green says [N-word].”  

In a statement through his attorneys, Sarver acknowledged he used the slur years prior, but not during the incident Watson described.  

“On one occasion a player used the N-word to describe the importance of having each others’ back,” he said. “I responded by saying, ‘I wouldn’t say n—a, I would say that we’re in the foxhole together.’ An assistant coach approached me a short time after and told me that I shouldn’t say the word, even if I were quoting someone else. I immediately apologized and haven’t said it ever again. The N-word has never been a part of my vocabulary.” 

On the incident in the locker room that Watson mentioned, Sarver said, “This is absolutely untrue. I remember the game and topic clearly. I of course never used the word myself. During this conversation, I said ‘N-word’ without saying the full word. The word itself never crossed my lips.” 

Green took to Twitter on Thursday and seemingly responded to the report, writing, “But I was fined?? Lol smh.”  

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ESPN’s bombshell report details other instances of racism and misogyny during Sarver’s 17-year tenure as owner of the Phoenix Suns.  

“There’s literally nothing you could tell me about him from a misogynistic or race standpoint that would surprise me,” a former Suns basketball player said.  

The report also details other incidents where Sarver reportedly used the N-word, claims which he denied. 

The NBA did not immediately respond to a request

The NBA released a statement regarding the Robert Sarver and the Phoenix Suns situation. 

“The allegations contained in today’s ESPN article are extremely serious, and we have directed the Wachtell Lipton law firm to commence a comprehensive investigation. The NBA and WNBA remain committed to providing a respectful and inclusive workplace for all employees. Once the investigation is completed, its findings will provide the basis for any league action.” 

Former Suns head coach Earl Watson released a following statement.

“I want to applaud the courage of the numerous players, executives, and staffers for fighting toxic environments of racial insensitivity, sexual harassment and micro-aggressions with their truth,” Watson said. “While our fortitude assists with progress, there is still more work to be done in the name of equality, and I believe that one of the strengths of our league is its ongoing commitment to justice.”

Editor’s Note: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated Sarver called Draymond Green the N-word. The story has been updated to reflect the accurate details of the encounter.