INDIANAPOLIS – In a surprising midseason move, the Indiana Fever have waived two-time WNBA champion DeWanna Bonner, marking a significant shift in the team’s lineup dynamics.
Breaking: Bonner’s Unexpected Departure
The Fever’s decision to release Bonner comes after just nine games with the team. According to multiple sources, Bonner had no intention of returning, citing a poor fit from the outset as the primary reason for her departure. The Fever, unable to secure a trade, opted to cut her from their roster on Wednesday.
Immediate Impact on the Fever
Bonner’s absence has been felt since mid-June, with the team initially attributing her leave to “personal reasons.” Fever coach Stephanie White recently noted Bonner was “day-to-day,” but her focus has shifted to the existing roster.
“I haven’t had a lot of conversations with her recently,” White stated. “Really been focused on the team we have right here and what we need to do to position ourselves to win.”
Key Details Emerge
Midseason trades in the WNBA are rare due to the hard salary cap. Bonner’s situation differs from past examples, such as Sylvia Fowles in 2015, due to its timing and her brief tenure with the Fever.
Bonner’s signing was highly anticipated, expected to bolster the Fever alongside Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark. However, her departure now leaves a gap in the team’s strategy.
Industry Response and Potential Moves
Teams have 48 hours to claim Bonner off waivers, requiring sufficient cap space to absorb her contract. The Golden State Valkyries and Washington Mystics are potential suitors, but sources suggest Bonner favors a return to the Phoenix Mercury.
Bonner is engaged to Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas, and the pair have a history of success with the Connecticut Sun.
By the Numbers
- Bonner averaged 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in nine games.
- The Mercury have $88,103 in cap space, enough to sign Bonner at the veteran minimum.
- The Fever’s cap space impact is limited to five-and-a-half weeks of the season.
What Comes Next
If Bonner clears waivers, she becomes an unrestricted free agent, free to sign with any team. The Mercury could potentially sign her without needing to clear additional cap space, though they would need to adjust their roster to comply with league rules.
The Fever, meanwhile, have re-signed guard Aari McDonald to a rest-of-season contract, as they continue to adjust their lineup post-Bonner.
Expert Analysis
Experts suggest Bonner’s desire for a starting role may have fueled her departure. Her statement reflects a mutual agreement with the Fever to part ways.
“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,” Bonner expressed in a team release.
The situation remains fluid as teams evaluate their options. Bonner’s next move could significantly impact the league’s competitive landscape as the season progresses.