Recent allegations involving WNBA star Sophie Cunningham and Phoenix Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein have sparked widespread attention, but claims of Cunningham pursuing legal action against Bartelstein appear to be unfounded. The controversy stems from a lawsuit filed by Gene Traylor, a former Phoenix Suns director of safety, security, and risk management, against Suns Legacy Partners, LLC, alleging racial discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Within the lawsuit, Traylor referenced a rumor allegedly spread by Cornelius Craig, the Suns’ vice president of security, claiming that Bartelstein was romantically involved with Cunningham during her tenure with the Phoenix Mercury. Both Cunningham and the Suns organization have vehemently denied these claims, and no evidence suggests Cunningham is taking legal action against Bartelstein.
Sophie Cunningham, now a guard for the Indiana Fever after six seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, addressed the allegations on May 21, 2025, calling them “untrue and extremely hurtful.” In a statement posted to her X account, she emphasized her commitment to integrity and her focus on basketball, stating, “I will not let untrue gossip take my focus away from what is most important to me, which is basketball, my supportive team, and my fans.” Cunningham, who was traded to the Fever in January 2025, is currently sidelined with an ankle injury but remains a prominent figure in the WNBA, known for her competitive spirit and contributions to the sport.
The Phoenix Suns and Mercury issued a strong rebuttal through Senior Vice President of Communications Stacey Mitch, who described the allegations as “entirely false and morally reprehensible.” The organization condemned the claims as baseless and suggested they were part of a broader attempt by Traylor’s legal team to sensationalize the lawsuit. The Suns have stated they will pursue all legal avenues to address the spread of what they call “salacious lies and fabrications.” Bartelstein, married to his wife Sydney since 2022, has not issued a personal comment on the allegations, but the organization’s response underscores their intent to protect his reputation.
Traylor’s lawsuit, filed on May 13, 2025, primarily focuses on workplace issues within the Suns organization, including allegations of racial discrimination and security lapses. The mention of Cunningham and Bartelstein appears incidental, used to illustrate alleged erratic behavior by Craig rather than as a central claim. Despite this, the rumor gained traction on social media and in media outlets, prompting swift denials from both Cunningham and the Suns. No reports confirm Cunningham pursuing legal action against Bartelstein or the Suns, contrary to the notion of a “shocking WNBA scandal” involving a lawsuit from her side.
The controversy highlights the challenges athletes face when personal rumors intersect with professional disputes. Cunningham’s focus remains on her recovery and her role with the Indiana Fever, where she is a teammate of Caitlin Clark. As the legal process unfolds, the Suns and Cunningham aim to move past these allegations, with the organization vowing to hold those responsible for spreading false narratives accountable.
