Portland Trail Blazers GM Neil Olshey under investigation for hostile workplace
Yahoo Sports reported on Saturday that Portland Trail Blazers’ ownership was investigating its General Manager, Neil Olshey, on charges of workplace bullying and harassment.
On Saturday, The Athletic and Yahoo Sports reported that Portland Trail Blazers owner Jody Allen hired the law firm of O’Melveny & Myers to conduct “a fair and independent” investigation into the workplace practices of team General Manager Neil Olshey.
I have to say this one took me by surprise. I suspected Olshey wasn’t the nicest guy. From everything I’ve seen after the ouster of Terry Stotts when he threw the former coach under the bus, I didn’t think he was a good manager. But a full-blown tirade having, including in your face profanity throwing…no, I would never have guessed that.
Is this the start of something?
This scandal has come on the heels of the NBA investigating Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver. Sarver is being investigated on charges of creating a toxic work environment along with racial allegations.
First, there was Donald Sterling. The league removed the Los Angeles Clippers owner and banned him from the NBA for life after racial comments he made went public in 2014. For good measure, they also fined Sterling $2.5 million.
There are no racist allegations against Neil Olshey among the complaints.
Former employees speak out
If you were wondering if this was a lone bitter employee, you are wrong. The law firm began interviews of present and former staff members away from the office this week. On Saturday, the Blazers’ organization released the following statement:
Portland Trail Blazers issue statement on the investigation of Neil Olshey, the president of basketball operations. pic.twitter.com/bKPCw73GXB
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) November 6, 2021
So far, Olshey is accused of bully tactics, profane laced tirades, and keeping records of any real or perceived complaints made against him. The law firm will present its findings to Jody Allen when they’ve completed their investigation. At that time, Allen will decide what Olshey’s fate is.
As of Saturday afternoon, Neil Olshey has made no comments. If any of the allegations are true, maybe he will try to save face and resign. Perhaps that’s what is best for all.
As soon as we know, PNWS will get the information to you on the outcome of this investigation.