Embattled owner Robert Sarver said that he has started the process of selling Phoenix Suns and Mercury. The news comes eight days after the NBA banned him for workplace misconduct including racist speech and hostile behaviour toward employees. 

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Who is Robert Sarver?

Robert Sarver, 59, is a banking mogul and co-founder of the real estate development firm Southwest Value Partners. He has been the owner of the Phoenix Suns since 2004. He purchased the Suns for a then-record $401 million.

The entrepreneur, like his father Jack, has made a name for himself in business and finance. Sarver was born in Tuscon, Arizona, and began his career at the age of 16 working for his father’s company, American Savings and Loan. Sarver is also a certified public accountant. In addition to owning the Phoenix Suns in the NBA, he also owns the Spanish football team Real Club Deportivo Mallorca (RCD).

Robert obtained his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Arizona in 1982. He started the National Bank of Arizona at the age of 23 and remained as its president until its sale in 1994.

Hiss real-estate firm, Southwest Value Partners, has 419 properties throughout Arizona, California, and northern Canada. Robert is also on the board of Monterey Homes and just departed as chairman of Zion’s Bancorporation, which owns Grossmont and National Bank of Arizona and is California’s fifth-biggest bank.

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Following the claims of sexual harassment and racism allegations, Jason Rowley, President, and CEO of Suns Legacy Partners said in a statement, “We take seriously any allegations of racism, sexism, or harassment of any kind, which have no place in our organization and are not tolerated. With respect to recent reports about a forthcoming ESPN article regarding Robert Sarver and our organization, I will simply say that we are aware of the false narratives it contains, and plan to respond accordingly.”