Mat Ishbia Challenges Lawsuits Against the Suns
The owner of the Phoenix Suns, Mat Ishbia, has expressed his firm stance regarding the multiple lawsuits facing his franchise, which range from accusations of discrimination to wrongful termination. Ishbia, on the Suns’ media day, called the lawsuits an “attempt to get money”. Since 2024, the franchise has been the subject of various lawsuits. Recently, in August, two minority owners of the Suns sued Ishbia, demanding access to records to investigate the team’s financial and commercial situation.Ishbia added: “I hope all of you report on how many lawsuits we actually lose. Because we haven’t lost any and, to be honest, we’re not going to lose any, because they’re ridiculous.” Among the demands the team faces are:“As you know, anyone can file a lawsuit at any time and for any reason,” Ishbia stated. “But the truth is, you have to win the lawsuit. Unlike most successful people, or people with a lot of money, we don’t settle. If we haven’t done anything wrong, I’m not going to pay anyone. If their threat is to go to the media and write about a lawsuit, have fun. Great, write it.”
Mat Ishbia, Owner of the Phoenix Suns
- In July, the Suns confirmed the dismissal of Gene Traylor, former security manager, who filed a lawsuit for discrimination, harassment, and illegal retaliation. The team stated that Traylor was fired following an external investigation that found he had violated company policies regarding confidential information.
- In early July, former Mercury interim coach Nikki Blue filed a lawsuit alleging unequal treatment based on race and gender, unequal pay based on race, and that her employment was terminated in retaliation for complaints about unequal treatment.
- In November, Andrea Trischan sued the team, alleging racial discrimination and illegal retaliation that led to her dismissal. Trischan was the team’s former diversity, equity, and inclusion manager for approximately 10 months in 2022 and 2023.
