In a recent turn of events that has stirred the sports world, Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has publicly denied allegations of an affair with Phoenix Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein. The claims surfaced as part of a lawsuit filed by Gene Traylor, a former director of safety and security for the Phoenix Suns, which alleges workplace harassment, racial discrimination, and other organizational misconduct. The lawsuit, filed in Arizona District Court on May 13, 2025, included a claim that Suns Vice President of Security and Risk Management, Cornelius Craig, spread rumors about an alleged affair between Cunningham and Bartelstein. Cunningham, who played for the Phoenix Mercury from 2019 to 2024 before being traded to the Indiana Fever, responded swiftly to set the record straight, calling the accusations “untrue and extremely hurtful.”
In a statement posted to her social media on May 21, 2025, Cunningham expressed her dismay, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the recent false accusation made against me by Gene Traylor, someone I do not know and have never met. Let me be clear, his statements are untrue and extremely hurtful.” She emphasized her commitment to her professional integrity and her focus on basketball, noting, “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’s response was not only a denial but also a critique of media outlets that published the allegations without seeking her comment, calling their actions “irresponsible.” Her statement underscored her frustration with the rapid spread of unverified claims and the impact they have had on her personal and professional life.
The Phoenix Suns organization also issued a strong denial, with Senior Vice President of Communications Stacey Mitch labeling the allegations “entirely false and morally reprehensible.” The team’s statement, released on May 20, 2025, accused Traylor’s attorney, Sheree Wright, of including “salacious lies and fabrications” in the lawsuit to pressure the organization into a settlement. The Suns clarified that the affair rumor was not the central focus of Traylor’s legal action, which primarily addresses allegations of discrimination and security lapses within the organization. According to the lawsuit, Traylor reported to Bartelstein that Craig had been spreading the rumor, but no direct evidence of an affair was provided, and the claim appears to be based on hearsay.
Cunningham, a 28-year-old WNBA veteran, has been a prominent figure in women’s basketball, known for her tenacity on the court. Drafted by the Mercury in 2019, she spent six seasons with the team before her trade to the Indiana Fever in January 2025. Her debut with the Fever was marked by a strong preseason performance, though an ankle injury has delayed her regular-season appearances. The timing of the allegations adds an unfortunate layer of distraction to her transition to a new team and her efforts to contribute alongside teammates like Caitlin Clark.
The lawsuit and subsequent media frenzy highlight the intense scrutiny athletes face off the court, where personal lives can become entangled in broader organizational disputes. Cunningham’s firm denial, backed by the Suns’ statement, seeks to refocus attention on her career and resilience. As the legal proceedings continue, the basketball community awaits further developments, with Cunningham determined to keep her focus on the game she loves.
