The NBA released a state about the independent investigation re: the Dallas Mavericks workplace, which substantiated numerous instances of sexual harassment and other improper workplace conduct within the Mavericks organization over a period spanning more than twenty years. The investigators concluded that Mavericks’ management was ineffective, including a lack of compliance and internal controls, noting that investigators found no evidence that team owner Mark Cuban was aware of former President and CEO Terdema Ussery’s misconduct. Subsequently, Cuban has agreed to contribute $10 million to organizations that are committed to supporting the leadership and development of women in the sports industry and combating domestic violence. Additionally, the NBA is requiring the Mavericks to provide the league office with quarterly reports regarding the recommendations set forth in the report and their implementation, among other programs.

“The findings of the independent investigation are disturbing and heartbreaking and no employee in the NBA, or any workplace for that matter, should be subject to the type of working environment described in the report,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “We appreciate that Mark Cuban reacted swiftly, thoroughly and transparently to the allegations first set forth in Sports Illustrated – including the immediate hiring of Cynthia Marshall as CEO to effect change, but as Mark has acknowledged, he is ultimately responsible for the culture and conduct of his employees. While nothing will undo the harm caused by a select few former employees of the Mavericks, the workplace reforms and the $10 million that Mark has agreed to contribute are important steps toward rectifying this past behavior and shining a light on a pervasive societal failing — the inability of too many organizations to provide a safe and welcoming workplace for women.”