WNBA Star Denies Affair with Suns CEO After Lawsuit

A lawsuit has ignited controversy in the WNBA, alleging an affair between Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham and Phoenix Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein. The allegations, stemming from a lawsuit filed against the Phoenix Suns organization, have been met with strong denials from both Cunningham and the team.

This situation raises concerns about workplace conduct and the potential impact on the reputations of those involved.

Highlights

• A lawsuit alleges Sophie Cunningham had an affair with Phoenix Suns/Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein.
• Cunningham denies the allegations, calling them "untrue and extremely hurtful".
• The Phoenix Suns organization also denies the claims, calling them "morally reprehensible".

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Top 5 Key Insights

• Lawsuit Claims: Gene Traylor, former Director of Safety, Security, and Risk Management for the Phoenix Suns, filed a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination and security issues. The lawsuit includes a claim that Cornelius Craig, the Suns' Vice President of Security and Risk Management, spread rumors about an affair between Bartelstein and Cunningham.

• Denials Issued: Sophie Cunningham has publicly denied the allegations via social media, stating that the claims are untrue and hurtful. She also stated she doesn't know the person who made the allegations. The Phoenix Suns organization has also issued a strong denial, refuting the claims as false.

• Cunningham's Career: Sophie Cunningham played for the Phoenix Mercury from 2019 until she was traded to the Indiana Fever in January 2025. She signed a contract extension with the Mercury in September before being traded. She is now focused on her career with the Fever.

• Bartelstein's Background: Josh Bartelstein, 35, has been the CEO of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury since April 2023. He is married and has been publicly praised by his wife. The allegations have raised questions about his conduct as CEO.

• Legal Ramifications: The lawsuit against the Phoenix Suns organization includes allegations of workplace mismanagement, racial discrimination, and security deficiencies. This is one of multiple lawsuits filed against the Suns since November 2024. The NBA is reportedly allowing the legal process to proceed.

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Expert Insights

Stacey Mitch, Senior Vice President of Communications for the Suns: "The recent reports concerning Josh Bartelstein and Sophie Cunningham are entirely false and morally reprehensible."

Sophie Cunningham: "I am deeply saddened by the recent false accusation made against me by Gene Traylor, someone I do not know and have never met."

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Wrap Up

The allegations of an affair have created a significant distraction for both Sophie Cunningham and the Phoenix Suns organization. While the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on the denials issued by both parties and the potential impact on their respective careers and reputations.

The situation highlights the importance of maintaining professional conduct in the workplace and the serious consequences of spreading unsubstantiated rumors. This controversy serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes and executives in the public eye.

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Author

Rahul Desai - A seasoned sports journalist and commentator based in Delhi, India, covering major sporting events and trends. He offers expert analysis on sports and provides unique opinions on the intersection of sports, society, and personal development for Enlightnr.