DeWanna Bonner, the former Indiana Fever forward, is anticipated to rejoin the Phoenix Mercury shortly, as reported by ESPN’s Michael Voepel and Josh Weinfuss. The 37-year-old player had a challenging season with the Fever, participating in only nine games before being waived on June 25, primarily due to personal reasons that kept her sidelined for five games.
A significant figure in WNBA history, Bonner was originally drafted by the Mercury with the fifth overall pick in 2009 out of Auburn. She enjoyed a successful decade with the franchise, where she clinched two championships. After a trade to the Connecticut Sun in 2020, she spent five seasons there before signing a one-year, $200,000 deal with the Fever ahead of the 2025 season. However, her time in Indiana didn’t pan out as hoped, resulting in her limited playtime where she averaged 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 steals across 21.3 minutes per game.
In a heartfelt statement, Bonner expressed her gratitude to the Fever organization, acknowledging the opportunity to play for the team but recognizing that the fit ultimately did not work out as intended. She thanked the Fever for their understanding in granting her request to move on, especially at this stage of her career, and wished the team success as they continue to develop their young talent.
Bonner’s anticipated return to Phoenix marks a potential new chapter in her career, bringing with her extensive experience and leadership qualities that could significantly impact the Mercury as they look towards future successes.