Former WNBA Star Sues Phoenix Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein For Alleged Affair

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Post on May 20, 2025

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Former WNBA Star Sues Phoenix Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein for Alleged Affair

Former WNBA star, Brittany Jackson, has filed a lawsuit against Phoenix Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein, alleging a protracted affair and subsequent breach of contract. The explosive lawsuit, filed in Maricopa County Superior Court, details a complex relationship spanning several years, claiming Bartelstein promised Jackson financial support and career advancement in exchange for her companionship. This high-profile case is sending shockwaves through the sports world, raising serious questions about power dynamics and ethical conduct within professional sports.

The lawsuit paints a picture of a relationship shrouded in secrecy, alleging that Bartelstein leveraged his influential position to exploit Jackson's professional aspirations. According to the court documents, the alleged affair began in 2018, during Jackson's playing career, and continued for several years. The complaint further alleges that Bartelstein promised Jackson substantial financial support for her post-WNBA career, including investments in business ventures and endorsements, promises which the lawsuit claims were never fulfilled.

<h3>Key Allegations in the Lawsuit:</h3>

• Breach of Contract: The core of Jackson's lawsuit centers on an alleged verbal contract with Bartelstein, where he promised financial and career support in exchange for a romantic relationship. The lawsuit argues that Bartelstein violated this agreement by failing to provide the promised resources.
• Abuse of Power: The complaint explicitly alleges that Bartelstein abused his position of power within the Phoenix Suns organization to manipulate and exploit Jackson. This aspect of the lawsuit is likely to attract significant attention and scrutiny, particularly regarding the ethical implications for sports executives.
• Emotional Distress: Jackson's lawsuit also seeks compensation for emotional distress allegedly suffered as a result of Bartelstein's actions. The emotional toll of such a situation on a professional athlete is a key element of the case.

<h3>Phoenix Suns Response and Public Reaction:</h3>

The Phoenix Suns organization has yet to release an official statement directly addressing the allegations. However, sources close to the organization suggest they are taking the matter very seriously and are conducting an internal review. The lawsuit has sparked intense debate on social media, with many expressing outrage and calling for accountability. The #JusticeForBrittanyJackson hashtag has been trending, highlighting the significant public interest in this case.

<h3>Legal Experts Weigh In:</h3>

Legal analysts are closely examining the details of the lawsuit, particularly the viability of the alleged verbal contract. The success of Jackson's case hinges on proving the existence and terms of this contract, as well as establishing Bartelstein's breach of those terms. The potential for a protracted legal battle is high, with experts anticipating extensive discovery and potentially a jury trial.

<h3>The Impact on the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA:</h3>

The lawsuit undoubtedly casts a shadow over the Phoenix Suns organization and the WNBA as a whole. This high-profile case brings to the forefront concerns about power imbalances and the treatment of female athletes within the professional sports landscape. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for future legal actions and potentially influence policies aimed at protecting athletes from exploitation.

This unfolding legal battle promises to be a significant event, capturing the attention of both sports fans and legal professionals alike. Further developments and statements from the involved parties will be closely monitored as the case progresses through the court system. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for the Phoenix Suns, the WNBA, and the broader discussion surrounding power dynamics and ethical conduct in professional sports.