The Indiana Fever's 2025 season has been marked by both high expectations and unexpected turbulence, most recently highlighted by the abrupt departure of veteran guard/forward DeWanna Bonner. Acquired in the offseason to bolster the Fever's roster and provide leadership alongside rising star Caitlin Clark, Bonner's stint with the team lasted a mere nine games, leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads.
Bonner's arrival in Indiana was initially met with excitement. A six-time All-Star and two-time WNBA champion, she was expected to be a key contributor on both ends of the floor. She even moved into third place on the WNBA's all-time scoring list in the season opener. However, the fit never quite materialized as envisioned. Bonner started the first three games but was then moved to a reserve role, with Lexie Hull taking her place in the starting lineup. In her nine appearances, Bonner averaged 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists, a significant drop from her career averages of 14.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists.
Speculation about Bonner's discontent began to swirl when she missed four consecutive games due to "personal reasons" beginning in the second week of June. Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports reported that Bonner had "no interest" in returning to the Fever, with her preferred landing spots being the Phoenix Mercury or Atlanta Dream. This news, coupled with her absence, led to accusations of her quitting on the team, which Bonner vehemently denied in a social media post, stating, "A QUITTER!! Nah never been that!! But when the time comes, let's just make sure the apologies are just as loud as the disrespect."
On June 25, 2025, the Fever officially waived Bonner after failing to find a suitable trade partner. In a statement released by the team, Bonner thanked the Fever for the opportunity but acknowledged that "the fit did not work out." She added, "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."
The Fever's decision to waive Bonner was reportedly influenced by her lack of interest in returning and the team's inability to find a trade that would benefit them. According to Front Office Sports, multiple sources indicated that teams had been advised not to pick up Bonner off waivers because her preference was to sign with the Phoenix Mercury, where her fiancée Alyssa Thomas currently plays. The team filled Bonner's roster spot by re-signing guard Aari McDonald, who had previously played three games for the Fever under an emergency hardship exception.
The situation raises questions about team chemistry, player expectations, and the challenges of building a cohesive unit in a short period. The Fever, with the addition of Caitlin Clark and other new faces, were already undergoing a significant transition. Bonner's departure adds another layer of complexity to their ongoing development. While her on-court performance may have been underwhelming, her veteran presence and experience were expected to be valuable assets. The Fever will now need to find other sources of leadership and continue to develop their young core.
As for Bonner, she now faces an uncertain future. If she clears waivers, she will become an unrestricted free agent, free to sign with any team. While the Phoenix Mercury appears to be her preferred destination, it remains to be seen whether they will make a move to acquire her, especially considering concerns about disrupting the team's existing chemistry. Regardless of where she lands, Bonner's brief and tumultuous stint with the Indiana Fever will undoubtedly be a talking point for years to come.
