The Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury announced today that Josh Bartelstein has been named as Chief Executive Officer of the franchises and the operating entity for Footprint Center. Bartelstein’s appointment is effective immediately.
Bartelstein joins the Suns and Mercury following 8 years with the Detroit Pistons. He started with the organization as the special assistant to the Vice Chairman and was promoted to Chief of Staff before rising to Executive Vice President of Business and Basketball Operations. In June 2022, Bartelstein joined the basketball operations staff as Assistant General Manager. During his time with the Pistons, Bartelstein was instrumental in the team’s return to downtown Detroit and oversaw the design and construction of the Pistons Performance Center.
“Josh understands our culture and values and shares our strategic vision for the Suns and Mercury,” said Mat Ishbia, Owner of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury. “His proven leadership abilities and deep experience in both the business and basketball sides of an organization makes him uniquely positioned to transform the teams into the best basketball franchises on and off the court.”
“The Suns and Mercury are world-class organizations with passionate fans and a strong commitment to the Phoenix community. I’m grateful to be joining at such an exciting and pivotal time for the teams, the arena and the city,” said Bartelstein. “We will remain focused on creating a culture where our team members can thrive, elevating the fan experience and making a positive impact on the Valley. I look forward to working with the team to collectively build on this foundation and usher in the Suns’ and Mercury’s next chapter of growth and success.”
A native of Highland Park, Illinois, Bartelstein was a four-year member of the basketball team at the University of Michigan and was named captain of the team that reached the 2013 NCAA Championship game.
As CEO of the Suns and Mercury, Bartelstein will oversee business operations, while President of Basketball Operations and General Manager James Jones manages basketball operations.