Phoenix, Arizona — The Phoenix Suns vehemently denied allegations concerning a supposed affair between CEO Josh Bartelstein and former Mercury player Sophie Cunningham in a statement released Tuesday. This denial comes in response to a lawsuit filed by Gene Traylor, the team’s former security director, which also includes claims of discrimination and harassment against the organization.
Communications executive Stacey Mitch issued the statement, categorically stating that the claims against Bartelstein and Cunningham are “entirely false and morally reprehensible.” The controversy arises amid Traylor’s broader accusations that the Suns retaliated against him after he reported significant security lapses within the organization, which allegedly included incidents where plainclothes law enforcement officers gained unobstructed access to the teams’ PHX Arena carrying firearms and knives.
The lawsuit alleges that Traylor was wrongfully demoted from his position as director of safety, security, and risk management following a presentation he gave to management. The presentation highlighted repeated security failures that he believed posed a considerable risk to the teams.
According to reports, the lawsuit also claims that the Suns employed Cornelius Craig as the new vice president of security and risk management with the intention of removing Traylor from his role. The lawsuit further cites erratic behavior on Craig’s part and includes an alleged remark from Traylor to Bartelstein about Craig’s claims of an affair between Bartelstein and Cunningham, which has since stirred public speculation.
Cunningham, who played for the Suns for six seasons before being traded to the Indiana Fever in the offseason, has not personally addressed the allegations. Currently sidelined with an ankle injury, she was recently ruled out for a game against the Atlanta Dream. Bartelstein, who is married, held a position of authority over Cunningham during her tenure with the team.
In response to the lawsuit, the Suns have consistently criticized both the accusations and Traylor’s attorney, Sheree Wright, labeling the claims “delusional” and suggesting that Wright is attempting to exploit the situation for personal gain. Mitch’s earlier statements condemned Wright for allegedly “inserting salacious lies and fabrications” into the legal complaints lodged against the franchise.
Wright, representing multiple plaintiffs in lawsuits against the Suns dating back to November, has stated she is not interested in publicizing the legal dispute. She emphasized her willingness to address the matter in court, where she believes the evidence will speak for itself.
The unfolding situation has drawn significant attention to the Suns and their internal security measures, raising questions about accountability and the treatment of employees within the organization.
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