Suns’ Chris Paul releases statement on Sarver, ‘the sanctions fell short’

Chris Paul knew the questions were coming: Suns media day is Sept. 26 and he was going to be asked multiple times about the actions and ensuing one-year suspension of team owner Robert Sarver for racist and misogynistic behavior, as well as creating a hostile work environment.

So Paul got out in front of it, releasing a statement on Twitter.

I am of the view that the sanctions fell short in truly addressing what we can all agree was atrocious behavior. My heart goes out to all of the people that were affected.

— Chris Paul (@CP3) September 15, 2022

CP3’s comments echo those of LeBron James, who made his statement earlier Wednesday night.

behavior. I love this league and I deeply respect our leadership. But this isn’t right. There is no place for misogyny, sexism, and racism in any work place. Don’t matter if you own the team or play for the team. We hold our league up as an example of our values and this aint it.

— LeBron James (@KingJames) September 14, 2022

Tamika Tremaglio, the National Basketball Players’ Association executive director, also released a statement with the same sentiment.

Yesterday the NBA released the findings from the independent investigation by Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz involving Suns Governor Robert Sarver.  Mr. Sarver’s reported actions and conduct are horrible and have no place in our sport or any workplace for that matter.

— Tamika Tremaglio (@ttremaglioNBPA) September 15, 2022

All issues that led to a toxic work environment for well over a decade.

I have made my position known to Adam Silver regarding my thoughts on the extent of the punishment, and strongly believe that Mr. Sarver should never hold a managerial position within our league again.

— Tamika Tremaglio (@ttremaglioNBPA)