Allegations Against Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein

Recently, controversial claims emerged involving Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein, who also holds a similar position for the WNBA’s Mercury. These claims suggest an affair with former Mercury star Sophie Cunningham, as detailed in a lawsuit filed in May by some members of the organization.

The plaintiff, Jean Treyler, who previously worked as the director of safety, security, and risk management, contends that colleagues spread rumors about Bartelstein’s connection to Cunningham. He reportedly heard from coworkers that Bartelstein was “f—ing Sophie Cunningham.”

In response, Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of Suns Communications, issued a statement denouncing the allegations and particularly criticized attorney Shelly Wright, one of the lawyers representing Treyler. Mitch highlighted Wright’s questionable professional standing, noting she is on probation for violations of conduct rules, implying her motives might not be purely legal.

According to Mitch, “Recent reports about Josh Bartelstein and Sophie Cunningham are entirely false and should be morally condemned. Let’s clarify the source of these claims.” She accused Wright of fabricating lies within her complaints, manipulating media coverage. Mitch asserted that the organization would pursue all available legal avenues to counteract what she termed misleading narratives.

Following the lawsuit, the Suns released a statement addressing Treyler’s allegations. The lawsuit claims that Cornelius Craig, the vice president of security and risk management for the franchise, disseminated damaging information that could jeopardize the organization. Treyler accused Craig of being a targeted individual related to the claims.

There’s no indication of how much compensation Treyler is seeking. Moreover, the lawsuit alleges that Treyler informed Bartelstein about Craig’s remarks, stating that Craig had told others about Bartelstein’s alleged affair.

On another note, Cunningham, now 28, spent six seasons with the Mercury before joining another team this offseason, having extended her contract through 2025. Bartelstein, who became CEO of both the Suns and Mercury in 2023, is tasked with overseeing the franchise’s operations. He has been openly discussing the pressures and challenges that come with this high-profile role, mentioning his supportive wife, Sydney, throughout his journey.

Over the past seven months, the Suns have faced multiple lawsuits from current and former employees. Allegations range from harassment and racism to illegal termination. Wright, the attorney at the center of many of these claims, has been described by a Suns spokesperson as attempting to manipulate employees into filing lawsuits, which could be interpreted as an agenda against the organization.

Previously, the Suns dealt with controversies under former owner Robert Sarver, who faced severe penalties for fostering a toxic work culture, leading to the sale of the franchise. Matt Ishbia acquired the teams in 2023, aiming to turn the page on past issues.