A former employee of the Phoenix Suns has filed a lawsuit against the team, claiming racial discrimination and illegal retaliation that culminated in her dismissal. The suit was lodged in the U.S. District Court in Arizona and was made public on Wednesday.
Andrea Trischan, who served as the manager for diversity, equity, and inclusion for the Suns, alleges that during her approximately ten-month tenure—spanning from September 2022 to July 2023—she witnessed not only racial discrimination but also instances of potential financial and sexual misconduct among team staff.
Trischan’s attorney, Sheree Wright, stated that the evidence supporting Trischan’s allegations illustrates a definitive pattern of discrimination within the Suns organization.
Initially hired in the aftermath of the suspension and $10 million fine imposed on former owner Robert Sarver for misconduct in the workplace, Trischan’s employment ended in July 2023, shortly after the team transitioned ownership to Mat Ishbia for about $4 billion, which included the WNBA franchise Phoenix Mercury.
Following her termination, Trischan lodged a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the civil rights division of the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. However, this complaint was dismissed on November 5, according to reports.
A representative from the Suns, Stacey Mitch, commented on the lawsuit, noting that Trischan’s case was dismissed by the Attorney General’s office and asserting that her claims have lacked merit from the outset. Mitch indicated confidence that the judicial system would also deem Trischan’s allegations unfounded, especially in light of her demand for $60 million in damages.
Wright countered this assertion, emphasizing Trischan’s determination to present her claims before a jury as a means of seeking justice, rather than relying on governmental processes burdened with limited resources and extensive workloads. She reiterated that Trischan is resolute in her commitment to revealing her experiences and supporting evidence in court.