In a major legal development, a former Phoenix Suns employee has filed a lawsuit alleging discrimination and harassment from NBA star Devin Booker, seeking $60 million in damages. The lawsuit has shocked the organization and added to ongoing conversations about workplace conduct in professional sports.
The former employee, whose identity remains anonymous, worked within the Suns’ organization for several years before leaving the team in 2023. In the lawsuit, the plaintiff claims they were subjected to discriminatory treatment by Booker, alleging that the All-Star shooting guard created a hostile work environment that led to their wrongful dismissal. The specific details of the alleged discrimination have not been fully disclosed, but the lawsuit cites racial and gender-based comments and actions that contributed to an atmosphere of fear and exclusion.
According to the claim, Booker’s actions went unchecked by Suns management, exacerbating the employee’s distress and causing long-term emotional and professional harm. The plaintiff alleges that despite raising concerns to higher-ups within the organization, no action was taken to address the behavior. This lack of response, the lawsuit claims, eventually led to the employee’s forced resignation.
Devin Booker, one of the NBA’s brightest stars, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations. His representatives have denied any wrongdoing, calling the claims “unfounded” and a “baseless attempt” to damage his reputation. The Phoenix Suns organization has also released a statement, expressing its commitment to investigating the allegations but standing by its policies that promote fairness and inclusivity within the workplace.
The lawsuit, which seeks $60 million in damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and punitive compensation, is sure to be closely followed by both sports and legal communities. With the NBA already dealing with heightened scrutiny on issues of workplace culture, this case could have far-reaching implications for both the league and the Phoenix Suns franchise.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Booker’s career and the Suns’ reputation may face serious challenges, and the outcome could set a precedent for how future cases of discrimination within professional sports organizations are handled.