Drake Solomon, who performed as Rocky for the Denver Nuggets, has filed a lawsuit alleging wrongful termination and disability-based discrimination.
According to The Denver Post, Solomon took over the Rocky role after his father, Kenn Solomon, retired in 2021.
The suit claims Kroenke Sports & Entertainment fired Solomon in August 2024. Solomon had undergone hip replacement surgery months earlier to treat avascular necrosis (AVN), the complaint says.
The surgery took place on April 2, 2024. Solomon returned to work on May 20, 2024, and reported encountering a hostile work environment upon his return.
Despite performing mascot duties over the summer, KSE held tryouts for the Rocky position ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season. Solomon’s lawsuit argues that this process effectively sidelined him from the role he had been performing.
The complaint, filed on Wednesday, highlights alleged violations under disability protections. It also raises concerns about employment practices for staff with medical conditions.
Rocky is a visible, on-court role that also involves community appearances and promotional duties. Solomon’s complaint notes his tenure in the role and the timing of his surgery before the alleged firing.
Kroenke Sports & Entertainment is the Nuggets’ parent company and oversees team operations.
