WNBA Star Sophie Cunningham Accused of Affair with Married NBA Executive in Explosive Lawsuit

A scandal is rocking the world of professional basketball as a newly filed lawsuit alleges an affair between Sophie Cunningham, former Phoenix Mercury standout, and Josh Bartelstein, the married CEO of both the Phoenix Suns and Mercury organizations.

The lawsuit, brought forward by Gene Traylor, the Suns’ former director of safety, security, and risk management, alleges a toxic work environment plagued by racial discrimination and organizational misconduct—centered around the alleged relationship between Cunningham and Bartelstein.

Details From the Lawsuit

According to Traylor’s complaint, Cornelius Craig, the Suns’ vice president of security and risk management, circulated damaging rumors about the relationship. Traylor claims he alerted Bartelstein to Craig’s comments, but the CEO failed to act.

The suit quotes Traylor’s account:

“When Bartelstein asked Plaintiff to reveal what Craig was saying, Plaintiff explained that Craig had been telling others, ‘Josh Bartelstein is f–king Sophie Cunningham.’”

This allegation has sent shockwaves through the basketball community, raising questions about professionalism and leadership within the Suns and Mercury organizations.

Official Responses

In response, Stacey Mitch, Senior Vice President of Communications for the Suns, issued a strong denial.

“The recent reports concerning Josh Bartelstein and Sophie Cunningham are entirely false and morally reprehensible,” Mitch said in a statement to The Independent.

She also took aim at Traylor’s attorney, Sheree Wright, referencing past disciplinary actions.

“She continues to insert salacious lies and fabrications into her complaints—hoping to coerce the Phoenix Suns into settling. We will not be extorted and no settlement will be made.”

Background on Sophie Cunningham and Josh Bartelstein

Cunningham, 28, was drafted by the Mercury in the second round of the 2019 WNBA Draft and quickly became a key player for the team. Though she extended her contract through 2025 last September, she was traded to the Indiana Fever in February 2025.

Cunningham missed the Fever’s recent season opener against the Chicago Sky due to an ankle injury.

Josh Bartelstein, a former University of Michigan basketball player, took over as CEO of the Suns and Mercury in April 2023 after a long stint with the Detroit Pistons organization. He has been married to his wife Sydney for two years.

In a November 2024 interview with Phoenix Magazine, Bartelstein praised his wife’s support amid the demands of his high-profile role:

“This job is incredibly demanding. It’s the best job ever, but it’s long hours, high stress and public-facing. And I travel a lot,” Bartelstein said. “Me and Sydney have done it together, and she’s a huge reason why I love what I get to do.”

What’s Next?

Neither Cunningham nor Bartelstein have publicly commented on the lawsuit’s specific allegations. Representatives for the Mercury and Fever have also declined to comment.

The lawsuit promises to shed light on internal dynamics within one of professional basketball’s most high-profile organizations—and the coming weeks will be critical for all parties involved as the legal process unfolds.