DeWanna Bonner, the seasoned WNBA player now in her 16th season, made headlines this offseason when she signed with the Indiana Fever after departing from the Phoenix Mercury. She was expected to elevate the Fever into championship contention alongside stars Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell. However, as fate would have it, Bonner now finds herself facing the Fever as a key player for the Mercury, who are battling the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA Finals after clinching a thrilling overtime victory in Game 5.
Despite scoring 13 points and pulling in six rebounds in a decisive Game 4, Bonner’s postgame remarks took a different turn as she opened up about the cyberbullying she has faced this season, particularly following her exit from Indiana. “I don’t know if I’ve overcome it yet. It’s been tough,” Bonner reflected, highlighting the challenges of navigating public scrutiny as a prominent figure in the league.
Criticism quickly emerged on social media, with some fans suggesting she could have leveraged the moment to uplift the WNBA and rally support amid ongoing Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations. While many commentators targeted her for perceived excuses after being outplayed, others came to her defense, acknowledging her struggles as a seasoned athlete adjusting to the invasive nature of social media and modern scrutiny.
The two-time WNBA champion and decorated player expressed her delight in returning to the Mercury, a team she knows intimately. Bonner cited familiarity and support from her teammates, including her fiancé, Alyssa Thomas, as factors in her move back to Phoenix. “I just wanted to be back home,” she said, sharing her relief at rejoining a team where she has made a significant impact.
Bonner faced backlash from Fever fans for her midseason departure, with some accusing her of quitting on the team. Nonetheless, as the season progresses, Bonner seems to be finding her footing and regaining confidence. She has acknowledged the challenges of managing her role on a star-studded team like the Fever and the pressure that comes with increased visibility in the WNBA.
As the league navigates a period of transformation marked by rising visibility and recent turmoil surrounding CBA negotiations, Bonner remains a beacon of talent and experience. She is among a select group of players in WNBA history to achieve remarkable career statistics, solidifying her legacy in the sport.
With the Mercury now positioned for a potential championship run, fans are hopeful that Bonner’s experience and leadership will guide the team through the finals, wherein a victory would not only add to her accolades but also validate her journey this season. As the league evolves, Bonner’s resilience and dedication continue to inspire many within and outside the WNBA.