DeWanna Bonner Poised to Rejoin Phoenix Mercury
DeWanna Bonner, a key figure in WNBA history and a beloved player for the Phoenix Mercury, is likely to make her much-anticipated return to the team, according to ESPN reports. The six-time All-Star and third all-time leading scorer in the league is expected to join the Mercury as an unrestricted free agent. Bonner was recently waived by the Indiana Fever, paving the way for this reunion.
In the lead-up to the Mercury’s game against the Dallas Wings, head coach Nate Tibbetts displayed a playful demeanor during a media session. When asked about Bonner’s possible return, he feigned ignorance, asking, “Who’s that?” He later declined to comment further, adding an air of mystery to the situation.
On game day, fans were treated to a glimpse of Bonner sitting courtside next to Mercury President Vince Kozar, fueling speculation about her immediate future with the team. The atmosphere was lively as supporters were eager to see what the team had in store.
Bonner, now 37, has a storied past with the Mercury. She spent the first decade of her impressive 16-year career in Phoenix and played a pivotal role in securing championships for the team in 2009 and 2014, alongside fellow star Diana Taurasi. Drafted as the fifth overall pick from Auburn in 2009, Bonner has averaged 14.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists over her career.
This moment is particularly special for Bonner, as it also marks a reunion with her fiancée, Alyssa Thomas, who transferred from the Connecticut Sun to the Mercury earlier this season. The pair had formed a formidable partnership during their time together in Connecticut, and their return to the court as teammates in Phoenix adds an exciting layer to this story.
Bonner was traded to Connecticut in February 2020, and her journey took another turn when she signed a one-year deal with the Fever for about $200,000. This season, however, has seen Bonner struggle with personal challenges and an adjustment to her new team. She played only nine games with the Fever, registering career lows in scoring and rebounding, and averaged 21.3 minutes in three starts.
In parting, Bonner expressed gratitude to the Fever organization for the opportunities she had. “I want to sincerely thank the Indiana Fever for the opportunity to be a part of the Fever franchise,” she stated. “Despite our shared goals and excitement heading into the season, I felt the fit did not work out. I appreciate the organization’s willingness to grant my request to move on, particularly at this point in my career.”
After her departure, Fever coach Stephanie White remarked on Bonner’s exit, saying she primarily focused on her current team. Amidst criticisms and rumors about her leaving Indiana, Bonner took to social media to clarify her position, stating, “A quitter!! Nah, never have been that!!”
As the Mercury currently sit second in league standings, they have an opportunity to make a significant splash with Bonner’s return. With $88,104 in cap space available, her potential signing would come at a prorated veteran minimum. However, the Mercury will need to make roster adjustments, potentially by waiving an unprotected contract player, to accommodate Bonner.
The excitement surrounding Bonner’s return to Phoenix is palpable, as fans and analysts alike speculate on how her skills and experience will impact the Mercury. This reunion not only signifies a coming together of talent but also a nostalgic chapter for Bonner, who returns to the franchise that helped launch her prolific career. The Mercury’s management and coaching staff are expected to evaluate their roster closely in the days to come.
In these formative stages of the season, the addition of Bonner could provide the Mercury with a needed boost as they continue their campaign. One thing is certain: Bonner’s legacy in the WNBA is far from over, and her story with the Mercury continues to evolve. Fans eagerly await her official signing and look forward to seeing her back in uniform, contributing to the team’s push towards championship aspirations.
