The Indiana Fever of 2025 looked stacked with their young offensive core intact, with added firepower and defense from the championship-experienced stars. DeWanna Bonner was one of those players who brought in glitters for the contender team.
But after just nine games, she took a break for personal reasons and finally left the organization midway through July. Both circumstances were surprising for the fan base. Some even made some serious accusations against the star forward. She decided to clear the air.
DeWanna Bonner Talks About Reasons For Leaving Indiana Fever
Caitlin Clark called her the voice of the locker room. HC Stephanie White called her leader on the court. But when it was needed, the two-time champion left the organization and joined her former team, the Phoenix Mercury.
Many believed the veteran didn’t like the ‘bench role’ following disappointing performances. But as per the 37-year-old star, that was not the reason for her departure.
BREAKING: DeWanna Bonner has no interest in returning to play for the Fever, per @AnnieCostabile.
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) June 24, 2025
Sources indicated Bonner’s preferred landing spots are with the Phoenix Mercury or the Atlanta Dream. pic.twitter.com/o9JFX3nNRK
“That wasn’t ever the issue. That’s never been me. I have no problems coming off the bench… I don’t feel like I have that reputation,” Bonner told the reporters.
Interestingly, the forward won the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year accolade thrice during her first three seasons with the Phoenix Mercury. The player later played as a starter for the next 13 seasons, including three starts with the Fever.
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DeWanna Bonner Settling Well With Phoenix Mercury
The homecoming was expected, as it was one of the veteran forward’s preferred and viable destinations. But her stay on the Fever team was not a complete failure. She averaged 7.1 points, four rebounds, and two assists in the nine games played. However, her move to the Mercury team was more fruitful and impactful.
The star currently averages around 14 points with five rebounds and two assists with limited game time. Her return also became memorable with a record for the most field goals made in a recent game with the Arizona franchise. After a grand welcome, she looked happy and expressed her gratitude.
“I’m just going to go out and do my job. They have every right to go out and do what they want. I’m just going to go out and compete with my team,” the former Auburn star told the media.
While the team is making a strong claim for the 2025 WNBA title, Bonner will be happy to be part of the history with her first franchise.
Also Read: DeWanna Bonner Shares Candid Thoughts On Phoenix Mercury Homecoming