Former Memphis Grizzlies Security Officer Sues Team for Racial Discrimination

Godfrey Howard alleges he was wrongfully terminated after being passed over for a promotion in favor of a younger white male.

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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A federal lawsuit filed by former Memphis Grizzlies security officer Godfrey Howard alleges the team has been systematically replacing Black security personnel with white officers, leading to Howard's termination in 2024 after over two decades of service. The lawsuit claims racial discrimination and wrongful termination, seeking Howard's reinstatement, financial compensation, and a jury trial.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about potential racial bias in hiring and promotion practices within professional sports organizations, which have faced scrutiny over diversity and inclusion issues in recent years. The outcome could set precedents for how such discrimination claims are evaluated and addressed in the NBA and other leagues.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Howard had served as interim director of the Grizzlies' security fleet before being passed over for the permanent leadership role in 2023, which was given to a "younger white male" named Jason Pagenkopf. Howard was then terminated in April 2024 without explanation. The complaint alleges that prior to the hiring of the new security director, nearly all security positions were held by Black officers, but a pattern of replacing them with white personnel has since emerged.

  • Godfrey Howard began working security for the Memphis Grizzlies in 2001.
  • In 2023, Howard was passed over for a permanent security leadership position in favor of Jason Pagenkopf.
  • Godfrey Howard was terminated from the Memphis Grizzlies in April 2024.

The players

Godfrey Howard

A 23-year veteran security officer for the Memphis Grizzlies who was terminated in 2024 after being passed over for a promotion.

Jason Pagenkopf

A younger white male who was hired as the new director of team security in late 2023, replacing Howard in the leadership role.

Memphis Grizzlies

The professional basketball team based in Memphis, Tennessee that is accused of racial discrimination and wrongful termination in the lawsuit.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights concerns about potential racial bias in hiring and promotion practices within professional sports organizations, which have faced scrutiny over diversity and inclusion issues in recent years. The outcome could set precedents for how such discrimination claims are evaluated and addressed in the NBA and other leagues.