Fever Part Ways With WNBA Legend DeWanna Bonner
It’s been a brutal stretch for DeWanna Bonner, a six-time WNBA All-Star and one of the league’s all-time great scorers. The Indiana Fever officially waived the 37-year-old forward on Wednesday, ending what turned out to be a brief and underwhelming stint in Indianapolis.
Bonner played just nine games this season, starting in three, and averaged 7.1 points and 21.3 minutes per game. Her final appearance came back on June 10, where she logged five points in 19 minutes against the Atlanta Dream. After her three early-season starts, Bonner’s role gradually diminished. And with the Fever’s young core starting to click, the writing was on the wall.
Few Suitors—But Phoenix Remains a Possibility
While some WNBA teams technically have the cap space to claim Bonner off waivers, namely the Golden State Valkyries, Connecticut Sun, and Washington Mystics. League insiders suggest none are expected to make a move.
According to Front Office Sports, teams have been “advised not to pick her up,” as Bonner reportedly has a strong preference to return to her original franchise: the Phoenix Mercury.
“The Indiana Fever have waived DeWanna Bonner, but now what?” wrote Annie Costabile. “Multiple league sources say teams are being discouraged from claiming her.”
Bonner spent the first 10 years of her WNBA career in Phoenix, where she won two championships (2009, 2014) and three Sixth Woman of the Year awards. She remains a beloved figure in the Mercury’s history and would likely be welcomed back with open arms, especially as Phoenix continues to find its identity this season.
Legacy Intact Despite a Rough Chapter
Bonner’s time in Indiana may have been forgettable, but her legacy remains untarnished. Just this year, she passed Tina Thompson to become the third all-time leading scorer in WNBA history. An incredible milestone that further solidifies her Hall of Fame case.
Over her storied career, Bonner has made six All-Star appearances and has been a model of consistency across 15 seasons. Even now, she could provide a veteran spark off the bench, especially in a familiar environment like Phoenix.
For now, Bonner waits, and the rest of the WNBA waits with her. Wherever she ends up, fans will be watching closely as one of the game’s all-time greats writes the next chapter of her legendary career.
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