Drake Solomon, the former mascot for the Denver Nuggets, who portrayed Rocky for three years, has filed a lawsuit against the team’s ownership, as reported by USA Today. Solomon took legal action against Kroenke Sports & Entertainment in Denver District Court, alleging violations of the Colorado Disability Protection Act and accusing a supervisor of endorsing unfair employment practices. Between 2022 and 2023, Solomon suffered an injury that led to a diagnosis of vascular necrosis, necessitating surgery and ultimately a hip replacement. The lawsuit states that the Nuggets expressed doubts about Solomon’s disability and health records. Upon returning from surgery, Solomon experienced a hostile work environment and was even subjected to a mascot tryout, with the team implying distrust because he had previously injured them.
In August 2024, following the lawsuit, Solomon was abruptly dismissed from his role, with the team later citing his failure to score first during the tryout as the reason for termination. The lawsuit hints at the possibility of broader class action suits, challenging the legality of the retirement packages offered by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, which are identical to those given to other employees. Solomon started with the Nuggets in 2012 as a trampoline dunk performer and member of the promotional team, later taking on the Rocky mascot role in 2021, continuing a family tradition initiated by his father, Elder Solomon, who first became Rocky in 1990 and served for over three decades.
Fan Take: This lawsuit highlights critical issues of workplace rights and disability accommodation in professional sports organizations, areas often overlooked despite their importance. For basketball fans, it’s a reminder that the integrity of the sport extends beyond the court, and how teams treat their staff can shape the culture and reputation of the entire franchise.
