WNBA player Sophie Cunningham has publicly addressed and denied allegations suggesting she was involved in an affair with Josh Bartelstein, the married CEO of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury. These claims emerged from a lawsuit filed by Gene Traylor, a former security director for the Suns, who alleged that Cunningham and Bartelstein had an inappropriate relationship during her tenure with the Phoenix Mercury.
In a statement shared on her Instagram account, Cunningham expressed that the rumors are “untrue and extremely hurtful.” She emphasized her commitment to integrity and clarified that she does not know Traylor and has never met him. Cunningham also criticized media outlets for not verifying the allegations before publication.
The Phoenix Suns organization has also refuted the claims, labeling them as “entirely false and morally reprehensible.” They criticized Traylor’s attorney, Sheree Wright, noting her prior disciplinary issues with the Arizona State Bar and a history of filing lawsuits that were dismissed or withdrawn.
Josh Bartelstein, who has been married since 2022, has not publicly commented on the allegations. However, in a previous interview, he mentioned the support of his wife in managing the demands of his role.
Cunningham, who was traded to the Indiana Fever in January, is currently sidelined with an ankle injury. She remains focused on her basketball career and upholding her personal values amidst the controversy.
