INDIANAPOLIS – DeWanna Bonner’s tenure with the Indiana Fever appears uncertain as sources suggest the WNBA star may be seeking new opportunities.
Breaking: Bonner’s Potential Exit from Indiana Fever
According to multiple league insiders, DeWanna Bonner, a two-time WNBA champion, is unlikely to return to the Indiana Fever. Sources indicate that Bonner’s preferred destinations include the Phoenix Mercury and the Atlanta Dream.
Bonner’s agent, Mike Cound, declined to comment on her current standing with the Fever.
Immediate Impact
The Fever signed Bonner in February to a one-year, unprotected contract worth $200,000. Her arrival was part of a significant free-agency period that saw the team also acquire three-time WNBA champion Natasha Howard, two-time champion Sydney Colson, and re-sign two-time All-Star Kelsey Mitchell.
Bonner started in the first three games of the season but was later benched in favor of shooting guard Lexie Hull. After six games coming off the bench, Bonner was sidelined due to “personal reasons.”
Bonner averaged 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in nine games before her absence.
Key Details Emerge
Multiple sources have described the fit between Bonner and the Fever as “off” from the outset. Intended to be a veteran anchor for the team’s young core, Bonner was expected to play a starting role. The Fever have not commented on the situation.
Trade or Waive?
The Fever face several potential scenarios regarding Bonner’s future. Although a trade is considered unlikely by many sources, it remains a possibility. The Phoenix Mercury have $88,103 in cap space, while the Atlanta Dream have $23,939, according to Spotrac.
Given that players with salaries similar to Bonner’s are typically not available for trade, a deal might require multiple players to free up necessary cap space.
The more probable scenario is waiving Bonner, which would only hold the Fever accountable for her prorated salary.
Industry Response
Waiving Bonner, who is on an unprotected contract, would mean that her salary becomes fully guaranteed at the midpoint of the WNBA season. If waived, teams would have 48 hours to claim her off waivers. If unclaimed, Bonner would become an unrestricted free agent.
The current veteran minimum in the WNBA is $78,831, allowing the Mercury to sign Bonner without any roster cuts if she clears waivers.
What Comes Next
The Fever’s decision on Bonner’s future could significantly impact their season strategy and salary cap management. Should Bonner become a free agent, her potential move to a new team could alter the competitive landscape of the league.
As the situation unfolds, the WNBA community remains attentive to the developments surrounding Bonner and the Fever.