The Indiana Fever shocked fans with a surprising roster shake-up this week. The most talked-about news was that the Indiana Fever let go of veteran forward DeWanna Bonner. Just months ago, the Fever signed her in hopes that her experience would guide a promising young squad.
However, her departure came after only nine games, leaving fans confused and frustrated. Many quickly took to social media, labeling Bonner as a “quitter.” But on Thursday morning, the six-time WNBA All-Star fired back at the criticism. Her bold and emotional message added more tension to an already dramatic exit.
DeWanna Bonner Breaks Silence After Unexpected Exit From Indiana
The 37-year-old signed a one-year, $200,000 deal during the offseason. Indiana hoped Bonner could bring championship experience and help lead a talented but young core. That group included young players like Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, Lexie Hull, and Makayla Timpson.
Bonner only participated in nine games, three of which she started. She averaged 7.1 points and 3.8 rebounds per game, with a career-low 34.5% shooting percentage. Her playing time also greatly decreased, falling from 31.8 minutes per game to just 21.3 minutes this season. Eventually, both sides agreed it just wasn’t working.
“Despite our shared goals and excitement heading into the season, I felt the fit did not work out. I appreciate the organisation’s willingness to grant my request to move on, particularly at this point in my career,” Bonner said in her official statement.
Still, some fans were not happy. Social media is flooded with comments calling Bonner a “quitter.”
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On Thursday morning, Bonner responded on her terms. A QUITTER!! Nah never been that!! But when the time comes…“Let’s just make sure the apologies are just as loud as the disrespect!! “IN DUE TIME ..DB,” she posted.
DeWanna Bonner’s recent Instagram post. pic.twitter.com/dLYTt920OU
— Khristina Williams (@Khristina) June 26, 2025
Bonner cleared the air and sent a clear message that she did not leave because she gave up. She left because the role didn’t match her expectations. She chose to walk away with dignity, not defeat. For many, her words carried the weight of a decorated career defending itself.
McDonald Returns As Fever Moves On From DeWanna Bonner And Eyes Frontcourt Options
After Bonner left, the Fever were forced to re-sign guard Aari McDonald. She had played three games earlier this month on a hardship contract. McDonald was signed by Indiana for the rest of the season this time.
Her new deal, worth around $53,000 plus a previous $6,000, gave the team cap flexibility. Indiana now has about $119,000 in cap space left. They plan to add a 12th player, preferably a frontcourt option, to replace Bonner’s position.
Bonner, meanwhile, has not announced her next step. But for now, her bold words echo louder than any game stat. Bonner may be off the Fever’s roster, but she’s not staying silent.