Veteran WNBA Star DeWanna Bonner Released by Indiana Fever, New Chapter Ahead
On a significant roster move, the Indiana Fever decided to waive DeWanna Bonner, one of the most seasoned players in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), on Wednesday. This decision has granted the 16-year veteran an unconditional release from the team, marking a notable turning point in her career and the franchise’s current season. 
Bonner’s Absence and Performance
DeWanna Bonner’s departure from the Fever comes after a period of absence beginning June 12. She missed the last five games due to personal reasons, which contributed to uncertainty surrounding her status with the team. While on the roster this season, Bonner had been contributing modestly, averaging 7.1 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. These numbers reflect a shift from her earlier career, where she was a dominant force in the league, regularly posting double-digit scoring figures.
Bonner joined the Fever as a free agent in February, a move that was initially seen as a way to add veteran leadership and scoring ability to Indiana’s relatively young roster. However, it appears that the integration did not go as smoothly as hoped. Her impact was less prominent than anticipated, and she started only three of the nine games she played for the Fever. This is a departure from her usual role; since 2012, Bonner had been a consistent full-time starter, making her presence on the court a staple for teams such as the Phoenix Mercury and Connecticut Sun.
Bonner’s Statement on Her Departure
In a news release, Bonner expressed gratitude toward the Indiana Fever for the opportunity to be part of the franchise. She candidly acknowledged that, despite shared ambitions and excitement at the beginning of the season, the fit wasn’t quite right. The mutual decision to part ways appears to be a respectful one, with the organization granting her request for a release, recognizing the significance of timing in her career.
“I want to sincerely thank the Indiana Fever for the opportunity to be part of the Fever franchise,” Bonner said. “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, particularly at this point in my career. I wish the Fever great success as they continue to build around this dynamic group of young players.”
This statement highlights the professional and amicable nature of the separation. Bonner’s reference to the team’s “dynamic group of young players” suggests an understanding that the Fever are focusing on developing a new core, potentially moving toward a rebuilding phase.
Career Highlights and Legacy
DeWanna Bonner’s career has been remarkable. Over her 16 years in the league, she has consistently been a scoring threat, averaging double-figure points every season she played in the WNBA. Her tenure includes significant time as a starter, beginning in 2012, when she played for the Phoenix Mercury and later the Connecticut Sun.
In fact, Bonner’s scoring prowess is such that she moved into third place on the league’s all-time scoring list during this season’s opener, cementing her status as one of the WNBA’s most prolific scorers. This achievement underscores her elite scoring ability and longevity in the league, reflecting years of sustained performance at a high level.
The 37-year-old’s release marks the end of a chapter with the Fever but leaves open the possibility of continued play, depending on how her career unfolds from here.
Waiver Process and Contract Details
Following her waiver by the Fever, Bonner will enter a 48-hour waiver period during which other WNBA teams can claim her. Should a team decide to pick her up during this window, they would assume the remainder of her contract, which is valued at approximately $200,000.
If no team claims Bonner off waivers, she would become an unrestricted free agent. In that case, she could sign with any team, likely for a prorated veteran minimum salary, allowing her flexibility to continue her career where she sees fit.
This waiver system is standard procedure in professional sports leagues, ensuring that players have an opportunity to be picked up by other teams, while also allowing franchises to manage their rosters effectively.
Indiana Fever’s Focus on Youth and New Talent
As the Fever make this roster adjustment, they are clearly emphasizing building around younger talent. One key move in this direction was the re-signing of guard Aari McDonald. McDonald had initially joined the team on a hardship contract earlier in the month and quickly made an impression with her performances.
During her time with Indiana, McDonald averaged 11 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game, showing a strong ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. Her energy, playmaking skills, and defensive tenacity have made her a valuable asset to the team’s current lineup.
Amber Cox, the Fever’s Chief Operating Officer and General Manager, praised McDonald’s fit within the team’s style and mentality. “From the moment she arrived in Indy, Aari was a clear fit with the style and mentality we are building here with the Fever,” Cox said. “Though only here a few games, her impact as a playmaker and a defender was evident. We are very excited to welcome her back for the remainder of the season.”
This statement reveals the team’s strategic vision, which is oriented toward cultivating young, dynamic players who align with the Fever’s long-term goals. McDonald’s re-signing is a signal that the franchise is investing in its future through emerging talent, likely aiming to foster a core group that can compete at a high level in the years ahead.
Context on Indiana Fever and WNBA Landscape
The Indiana Fever have historically been a competitive franchise in the WNBA, boasting a WNBA championship in 2012 and a history of playoff appearances. However, the team has been in a phase of transition recently, with an eye toward rebuilding and developing young players capable of carrying the franchise forward.
Veterans like Bonner, while valuable for their experience and leadership, sometimes face challenges integrating with younger squads or adjusting roles as teams evolve. The Fever’s decision to release Bonner, paired with the re-signing of a promising guard like McDonald, reflects this dynamic balancing act teams often face between experienced leadership and youth development.
Bonner’s Potential Next Steps
As Bonner enters free agency, her next steps remain uncertain but full of potential. At 37, many players in the league consider retirement, yet Bonner’s career longevity and scoring record could attract teams in need of veteran presence and scoring depth.
If signed by another WNBA team, Bonner would bring a wealth of experience, playoff savvy, and proven scoring ability. Teams looking to bolster their rosters for a playoff push might see value in adding her, even in a reduced role. Alternatively, Bonner might consider overseas opportunities, as many WNBA players do, where they often play during the offseason or extend their careers.
Regardless of where she goes next, Bonner’s career has been distinguished, and her release from Indiana does not diminish her legacy as one of the top scorers and stalwarts of the league.
Summary
In summary, the Indiana Fever’s decision to waive DeWanna Bonner reflects a combination of personal circumstances, on-court fit, and a broader strategic direction focused on youth development. Bonner, a 16-year veteran with a history of double-digit scoring and consistent starting roles, expressed gratitude for the opportunity but acknowledged that the partnership was not the right fit at this stage.
Meanwhile, the Fever reaffirmed their commitment to building around younger talent by re-signing guard Aari McDonald, whose impact on the team has been immediately felt. The organization appears poised to focus on cultivating a new generation of players to elevate the franchise’s competitiveness in the future.
Bonner’s next chapter is open, with other teams able to claim her during the waiver period or sign her as a free agent afterward. Her storied career and scoring achievements position her as a respected figure in the WNBA, and her professional and graceful exit from Indiana signals a potential fresh start elsewhere.
Leave a Reply