Dirk Nowitzki calls workplace misconduct allegations against Mavericks 'heartbreaking'

LOS ANGELES -- In the wake of a Sports Illustrated investigation that detailed a culture of misogyny and predatory behavior in the Dallas Mavericks organization, the team's longtime star, Dirk Nowitzki, responded Wednesday, calling the allegations "truly, truly disgusting."

"It's tough," Nowitzki said after the team practiced at USC in advance of a Friday game against the Lakers. "It's very disappointing. It's heartbreaking. I'm glad it's all coming out. I was disgusted when I read the article, obviously, as everybody was. I was shocked about some of the stuff."

Former Mavericks president and CEO Terdema Ussery has been accused of multiple acts of inappropriate behavior toward female employees during his 18 years with the team, according to the report. Employees say complaints were ignored by the head of human resources as well as superiors. Ussery, who was investigated by the team after similar claims in 1998, denied the allegations in a statement to SI.

The Mavericks issued a statement saying they are investigating, and the NBA says it has been informed. The team also said it fired website reporter Earl Sneed for misleading the team about a domestic violence incident.

source: espn