The Phoenix Suns are the talk of the town in the NBA this week, and not precisely for the best reasons. The 2021 NBA Finals runners-up’s owner Robert Sarver was accused of being directly involved in acts of misogyny, racism, and many more things, as well as allowing others within the organization to do the same.
The NBA announced they have banned Sarver for one year, and the Suns will have to find a new owner for the year Sarver will be out of service, but seeing the backlash after the investigation and subsequent sanctions, it doesn’t seem like Sarver will return to his old position.
PayPal Wants Robert Sarver Out Of The Phoenix Suns Or Will End Its Relationship With The Team
Many NBA stars have shown their unhappiness with this situation, including LeBron James and Phoenix’s own Chris Paul, but they’re not the only ones asking for changes within the franchise. In recent hours, their jersey patch sponsor issued a statement warning the team about the end of their relationship if Sarver continued as the Suns’ owner.
PayPal, the Suns' jersey patch sponsor, says it won't renew its deal with them if Robert Sarver remains involved with the Suns after this season. PayPal's deal with Suns expires at the end of this season. Paypal "found his conduct unacceptable and in conflict with our values." pic.twitter.com/lkPYhM5hzo
— Mike Vorkunov (@MikeVorkunov) September 16, 2022
“PayPal is a values-driven company and has a strong record of combating racism, sexism and all forms of discrimination. we have reviewed the report of the NBA league’s independent investigation into Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver and have found his conduct unacceptable and in conflict with our values. PayPal’s sponsorship with the Suns is set to expire at the end of the current season. In light of the findings of the NBA’s investigation, we will not renew our sponsorship should Robert Sarver remain involved with the Suns organization, after serving his suspension.
While we strongly reject the conduct of Robert Sarver, we remain supportive of the team, its players and the experienced and diverse talent now leading the organization, including Head Coach, Monty Williams, General Manager, James Jones, Assistant General Manager, Morgan Cat, and Senior Vice President of People and Culture, Kim Corbitt.”
This is a game changer in this whole situation. While some thought this would be the end of it, we haven’t seen half of the things that would happen to the Suns if Sarver stays as the Suns’ owner. John Hollinger recently explained that this was the course of action if fans wanted Robert out of the league. Things might be falling into place now, and fans can have what they want soon, as Sarver might be out of the association shortly.
