Sophie Cunningham, a former forward for the Mercury, has refuted claims of having a relationship with Josh Bartelstein, the married CEO of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, as stated in a lawsuit filed by Gene Traylor, the Suns’ security director in May.

The 28-year-old Cunningham, who was traded to the Indiana Fever in January, stated in a social media post that she has no acquaintance with Traylor and described the accusations as “false and deeply upsetting.”

Cunningham expressed her dismay at being falsely accused by Gene Traylor, emphasizing that she has no connection with him and has never even encountered him. She stated unequivocally that his assertions are baseless and distressing.

“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.

“To the media who reported on this, I have always spoken the truth and been transparent with any press inquiry. In this instance it feels irresponsible that I was never asked for comment about the accusation before several clickbait stories went to print.

“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.

Cunningham played for the Mercury from 2019 until 2024. The franchise drafted her in the second round of the 2019 WNBA Draft.

Traylor alleges in his lawsuit that Cornelius Craig, the Suns’ vice president of security and risk management, claimed Bartelstein was engaged in an affair with Cunningham.

Bartelstein, 35, has been married to his wife, Sydney, for two years as of November 2024, according to phoenixmag.com.

The Suns have denied the accusations in Traylor’s lawsuit.

“The recent reports concerning Josh Bartelstein and Sophie Cunningham are entirely false and morally reprehensible,” Suns senior vice president of communications Stacey Mitch said.