WNBA player Sophie Cunningham has publicly addressed recent allegations that she was romantically involved with Phoenix Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein while he was married.
The accusation surfaced in a lawsuit filed by Gene Traylor, a former security staffer for the Suns, who has alleged racial discrimination, harassment, and retaliation during his employment – while also including a claim that Cunningham was in a relationship with Bartelstein.
Cunningham, 28, is currently playing her first season with the Indiana Fever after spending six seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, where Bartelstein serves as CEO. The former Missouri Tigers standout took to social media on Wednesday to push back strongly against the rumor.
“I am deeply saddened by the recent false accusation made against me by Gene Traylor, someone I do not know and have never met,” Cunningham wrote. “Let me be clear his statements are untrue and extremely hurtful.”
The claim made waves on social media following the filing of Traylor’s lawsuit. Despite being part of a broader legal complaint against the Suns organization, the suggestion of an affair between Cunningham and Bartelstein was picked up quickly by media outlets and fans alike – prompting Cunningham to set the record straight.
Cunningham maintains focus amid controversy
In her statement, Cunningham reaffirmed her commitment to the sport and her reputation as a role model for young athletes.
“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,” she wrote. “I hold myself to the highest integrity and my values are what guide me on and off the court.”
Cunningham also criticized the media coverage surrounding the allegations, specifically calling out journalists who did not seek her side of the story before publishing headlines.
“To the media who reported on this, I have always spoken the truth and been transparent with any press inquiry,” she said. “In this instance it feels irresponsible that I was never asked for comment about the accusation before several clickbait stories went to print.”
The WNBA veteran concluded her response by emphasizing her focus on basketball and her new team in Indiana.
“I will not let untrue gossip take my focus away from what is most important to me which is basketball, my supportive team and my fans.”
The Phoenix Suns have also publicly denied the allegations included in Traylor’s lawsuit, which remains ongoing. No comment has been issued by Bartelstein regarding the specific claim involving Cunningham.
Cunningham, known for her fiery competitiveness and three-point shooting, was traded to the Fever in February as part of a multi-team deal. She continues to adjust to her new role in Indiana as the Fever look to rebuild around rising stars such as Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston.
Despite the off-court noise, Cunningham appears determined to keep her focus on her career and the game she loves.
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