The Phoenix Suns organization is once again under scrutiny as a new lawsuit alleges that CEO Josh Bartelstein engaged in an extramarital affair with former Phoenix Mercury player Sophie Cunningham. The lawsuit, filed by Gene Traylor, the Suns’ director of security, also includes claims of racial discrimination and the dismissal of safety concerns within the organization.
Allegations Detailed in Lawsuit
Gene Traylor’s lawsuit, filed in May, asserts that Cornelius Craig, the Vice President of Security and Risk Management, spread damaging rumors about Traylor and alleged that Bartelstein was involved in a relationship with Cunningham. Traylor claims he informed Bartelstein about these rumors, which included explicit language regarding the alleged affair. Both Bartelstein and Cunningham have not publicly responded to these allegations.
Organizational Response
The Phoenix Suns have responded by criticizing Traylor’s attorney, Sheree Wright, highlighting her past disciplinary actions and labeling the allegations as “delusional and categorically false.”
Background on Key Individuals
Josh Bartelstein became CEO of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury in April 2023, following a tenure with the Detroit Pistons. He has been married to his wife, Sydney, since November 2022.
Sophie Cunningham played for the Phoenix Mercury from 2019 to 2024 before being traded to the Indiana Fever in February 2025. She has yet to debut this season due to an ankle injury sustained in the preseason.
Ongoing Scrutiny of Suns Organization
This lawsuit adds to a series of controversies surrounding the Phoenix Suns. In 2022, former owner Robert Sarver was suspended for one year and fined $10 million following an NBA investigation that uncovered instances of racism, misogyny, and workplace misconduct during his 18-year tenure. Sarver subsequently announced plans to sell both the Suns and Mercury franchises.
The current allegations against Bartelstein and the organization’s handling of internal concerns continue to raise questions about the culture and leadership within the Suns franchise. As the lawsuit progresses, further developments are anticipated.
