DeWanna Bonner's unexpected departure from the Indiana Fever has sent ripples through the WNBA, leaving fans and analysts speculating about her next move. After signing a one-year deal with the Fever in February 2025, the six-time All-Star's stint with the team was cut short, ending in a waiver announced on June 25, 2025.

Bonner's time with the Fever was brief, appearing in only nine games and averaging 7.1 points and 3.8 rebounds. While she started in the initial three games, she was later moved to the bench. Since June 12, she had been away from the team due to personal reasons and had reportedly requested a trade, according to Sportsnet. In a statement released by the team, Bonner expressed her gratitude to the Fever organization but acknowledged that "the fit did not work out."

Several sources suggest that Bonner's preferred destinations are the Phoenix Mercury, where she spent the first 10 years of her WNBA career and won two championships, and the Atlanta Dream. Front Office Sports reported that teams have been advised not to pick her up off waivers, as her preference is to sign with the Mercury. This would allow her to sign for the veteran minimum of $78,831 without the team needing to make any immediate roster cuts, as the Mercury already possess $88,103 in cap space.

However, a return to Phoenix is not a certainty. Sources indicate that the Mercury are weighing the potential disruption Bonner's arrival could cause to the team's developing chemistry. Despite this, the appeal of reuniting with her former team and contributing to their championship aspirations could be a strong draw for the veteran player.

The Atlanta Dream also remain a potential option, although their cap space is more limited. As the Fever were unable to find a suitable trade partner, they ultimately decided to waive Bonner. With Bonner on an unprotected contract, the Fever's only benefit from this move is the resulting cap space.

In a corresponding move, the Fever announced the signing of guard Aari McDonald for the remainder of the season. McDonald had previously played three games for the team under a hardship waiver, averaging 11.0 points and demonstrating a strong fit with the Fever's style of play.

Bonner's departure marks the end of what was anticipated to be a significant addition to the Indiana Fever's roster. Her experience and leadership were expected to complement the team's young core, including Caitlin Clark. However, with Bonner's sights seemingly set on a return to Phoenix or a fresh start in Atlanta, the WNBA world awaits her next chapter.