Andrea Trischan, a former program manager of diversity, equity, and inclusion for the Phoenix Suns, has filed a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Arizona's attorney general's office. Trischan, who served from September 2022 until July 2023, is alleging wrongful termination and seeking $60 million in damages.
Allegations of Misconduct and Response
Trischan’s claims come amid an already tumultuous period for the franchise. In her complaint, she alleges she faced a hostile work environment marked by overt racist comments that went unaddressed despite being reported to the Suns' HR and executive leadership. Her attorney, Sheree Wright, emphasized, “... [Trischan] endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership.”
According to Trischan, her termination followed her voicing concerns about the organization’s decision to appoint several executives accused of misconduct to a newly established diversity council. Trischan claims she was placed on a performance improvement plan in late May 2023 and was ultimately fired two months later.
The Suns' Official Stance
The Phoenix Suns have categorically denied any wrongdoing. Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of communications for the Suns and Mercury, stated, “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 further criticized the allegations, calling them baseless and opportunistic. “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,” Mitch said.
The team also addressed Trischan's specific allegations regarding the diversity council, pushing back strongly against her claims. A spokesperson for the organization said, “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.”
Ongoing Investigations and Historical Context
Trischan’s complaint is being reviewed by the Arizona Civil Rights Division (ACRD), with which the Suns have committed to full cooperation. The spokesperson added, “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.”
This latest controversy follows the high-profile investigation into the Suns' former owner, Robert Sarver, who was suspended by the NBA following findings of inappropriate workplace conduct. The organization has since experienced significant changes. Jason Rowley, the former team president and CEO, resigned in February 2023, shortly before Mat Ishbia's purchase of the team was finalized that same month.
Internal Dynamics
Trischan’s criticism points to a deeper issue within the organization, particularly its handling of diversity and inclusion. Her expressed concerns about the appointment of executives previously accused of misconduct to a diversity council highlight potential inconsistencies in the team's commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment.
The Suns maintain that they are building a “world-class organization for every employee,” as Mitch remarked. However, Trischan’s allegations and the legal battle ahead leave questions about the true state of the team's workplace culture and its adherence to DE&I principles.
As both sides prepare for a potential courtroom battle, the outcome will likely have significant implications for the Phoenix Suns’ organizational policies and its image in the professional sports community. The pending review by the ACRD will be a critical step in determining the legitimacy of Trischan's claims and the organization's internal practices moving forward.