A source confirmed that Neil Olshey, the president of basketball operations for Portland Trail Blazers, is currently under investigation by the team into allegations regarding workplace misconduct.
The team released a statement acknowledging the investigation, but not naming Olshey. They stated that the Trail Blazers had been "recently notified" of concerns about the workplace environment by non-player employees at the practice facility. We immediately engaged O'Melveny & Myers (an outside firm with considerable expertise in this field) to investigate these concerns. Based on the outcome, we will take the appropriate actions.
According to a Yahoo Sports report, Olshey is accused of creating a hostile environment at work, including instances of bullying, intimidation, and harassment.
The Athletic first reported the news about Olshey's investigation. This comes just days after ESPN reported on a history of misconduct by Robert Sarver, owner of Phoenix Suns.
Olshey, 56 has been a member the Trail Blazers' Front Office since 2012 when he was promoted to general manager after nine years with the LA Clippers. Olshey was elevated to his current position with Portland in 2015.
The Trail Blazers have a record of 4-5 under Chauncey Billups, their first-year coach. This was despite concerns over his involvement in a 1997 case of rape.
Olshey stood firm in his support for Billups during the hiring, relying on the Trail Blazers' independent investigation.
