Just weeks into what looked like a promising WNBA partnership, DeWanna Bonner and the Indiana Fever have officially parted ways. And speculation is swirling about what really went wrong.
The 37-year-old WNBA legend, who boasts two championships, six All-Star nods, and three Sixth Woman of the Year awards, was released by Indiana in June after only nine games. The team cited “personal reasons” for her absence at first, but new reports suggest it had more to do with locker room chemistry than private matters.
Did Bonner Reject the Caitlin Clark Spotlight?
While Bonner had publicly praised Caitlin Clark, even saying, “I want to win for her… she deserves it,” insiders now say the dynamic in Indiana was far from harmonious. According to Front Office Sports, Bonner requested her release so she could sign with the Phoenix Mercury. Further hinting she still had game left, but just not with this team.
It’s a puzzling development. Bonner had an existing relationship with Fever head coach Stephanie White, having played under her in Connecticut. She wasn’t likely upset about minutes either, despite tying a career low, given her age and role. That leaves one burning question: was it the Caitlin Clark effect?
USA Today’s Christine Brennan suggests the intense media spotlight on Clark and the noise that comes with it may have driven Bonner away. “It’s just a super hot spotlight,” Brennan said. “Instead of loving it… (Bonner) couldn’t handle it, or didn’t want it.”
The official statement from Bonner was measured: “Despite our shared goals and excitement heading into the season, I felt the fit did not work out and I appreciate the organization’s willingness to grant my request to move on.”
Still, fans can’t help but wonder—did Bonner see something in Indiana that made her pull the plug early? And what does it say about the Fever’s ability to gel around a generational star like Clark?
One thing is certain: all eyes will remain on Indiana as the WNBA season unfolds.
Read More: DeWanna Bonner Suffers Blow After Indiana Fever Release
