Phoenix Suns CEO Named in Fourth Workplace Lawsuit Involving Sophie Cunningham

The Phoenix Suns organization is currently facing multiple lawsuits, including one filed by former director of safety Gene Traylor alleging racial discrimination, retaliatory demotion, and serious security deficiencies. The latest suit accuses Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein of having an improper affair with Sophie Cunningham, a former Phoenix Mercury player now with the Indiana Fever, raising concerns about conflicts of interest given Bartelstein's oversight of both teams. Traylor's lawsuit also highlights ignored safety warnings, confirmed by undercover testing that revealed security breaches at Suns venues. Neither Bartelstein nor Cunningham have publicly addressed the allegations, which have sparked widespread scrutiny over workplace culture and leadership under Suns owner Mat Ishbia. These legal actions follow three previous lawsuits since November, all focusing on hostile work environments and misconduct within the Suns organization. Cunningham, despite her involvement in the legal controversy, is expected to be a key player for the Fever in the ongoing WNBA season.