Image Credit: Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

“I Do Not Know and Have Never Met” — Sophie Cunningham Blasts Allegations of Affair With Suns CEO Amid Lawsuit Turmoil

Lawsuit Alleges Toxic Workplace, Not Affair

Image Credit: Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The WNBA’s 2025 season has started off wild, not on the court, but off it. Recently, the women’s basketball world woke up to some shocking allegations involving Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham and Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein. The Fever basketball player has finally responded to the allegations.

In a statement, she said, “I am deeply saddened by the recent false accusations 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.”

Cunningham added, “I am here to compete, play basketball at the highest level and win for my team and my fans, while inspiring other women that they can do or be anything they ever dream of becoming. I hold myself to the highest integrity, and my values are what guide me on and off the court.”

Sophie Cunningham continuing to participate in practice today, with a small wrap on her right ankle.

She was questionable, then ruled out for yesterday’s game against Atlanta. pic.twitter.com/ji7tCsDj2T
— Chloe Peterson (@chloepeterson67) May 21, 2025

Also Read: Phoenix Mercury vs. Los Angeles Sparks Injury Report and Predicted Lineups: Major Names Missing Ahead of Wednesday Clash, Key Updates on Cameron Brink and Natasha Mack

Gene Traylor, a former director of safety and security at the Phoenix Suns, has filed a lawsuit alleging workplace harassment and racial bias within the organization. In a multiple page document, mention of Sophie Cunningham and Josh Bartelstein having affair has caught the eye of the media world.

While Traylor did not directly accuse Cunningham or Bartelstein of an affair, his legal filing referenced a damaging rumor allegedly spread internally by another executive. Traylor while whistleblowing mentioned that Cornelius Craig who served as the Vice President security and risk management put out the rumors of the affair. If anything Gene Traylor has accused Craig of launching a “harmful information” campaign.

Suns Deny All Misconduct in Lawsuit

Suns were quick to react to the developments, especially in regards with the affair and workplace harassment accusations. The management has denied all the wrongdoings from the lawsuit. Stacey Mitch, the Suns’ Senior Vice President of Communications, reacted by putting out a public statement.

The statement read, “Ms. Wright (attorney) and her client have made absurd accusations of misconduct surrounding the security department of the Phoenix Suns. These allegations are delusional and categorically false.” Gene Traylor is being represented by attorney Sheree Wright.

Sophie Cunningham, who played for the Phoenix Mercury until 2024, joined the Indiana Fever this season. The team has yet to comment on the situation.