Shocking Rumor: DeWanna Bonner’s Future with the Indiana Fever in Doubt as She Eyes Phoenix Mercury or Atlanta Dream

In a surprising twist that has left the WNBA community buzzing, sources have revealed that DeWanna Bonner, the veteran star for the Indiana Fever, may not be returning to the team next season. The once-pivotal figure in the Fever’s lineup is reportedly considering other options, with her preferred landing spots said to be the Phoenix Mercury or the Atlanta Dream. This revelation has sent shockwaves through fans and analysts alike, raising questions about Bonner’s future in the league, the dynamics of the Fever, and the potential reshaping of the WNBA’s power teams.

The Growing Divide: What Led to DeWanna Bonner’s Uncertain Future?

DeWanna Bonner’s time with the Indiana Fever has been marked by both promise and frustration. When she was traded to the Fever in 2020, the expectation was clear: she was to be the calming, experienced veteran who would help lead a young, rebuilding team. However, over the last few seasons, her contributions on the court have not lived up to the expectations set for a player of her caliber. Bonner’s scoring has been inconsistent, and her overall impact has sometimes felt less like a stabilizing force and more like a misfit in the team’s evolving system.

Her struggles on the court have been compounded by an increasing number of off-court absences and a general sense of unease around her fit within the Fever’s lineup. Recently, rumors have swirled that Bonner’s relationship with the Fever’s coaching staff, and perhaps even her teammates, has become strained, leading to growing speculation that she may seek a fresh start elsewhere.

For fans who have followed Bonner’s career, this news is disheartening, as her arrival in Indiana was met with so much excitement. But the situation now appears more complicated, with her future in the league uncertain.

Phoenix Mercury or Atlanta Dream? The New Teams in Play for Bonner

According to sources close to the situation, Bonner’s top choices for her next career move are the Phoenix Mercury and the Atlanta Dream. The Mercury, a perennial powerhouse with an established roster and a history of championships, could offer Bonner the opportunity to rejoin a winning team. Bonner has had a history with the Mercury, where she played for eight seasons and won two WNBA championships. Returning to Phoenix would reunite her with former teammates and provide a shot at adding another title to her résumé.

The Atlanta Dream, on the other hand, offers a different kind of opportunity. With a roster full of young talent like rookie sensation Rhyne Howard, the Dream is on the rise and could benefit from Bonner’s leadership and experience. Bonner’s veteran presence could be the key to unlocking the Dream’s full potential as they continue their rebuilding process. The chance to mentor a new generation of talent while competing for a playoff spot may be an appealing prospect for the 34-year-old.

But while these two teams are the rumored destinations, nothing is confirmed yet. The question remains: what is driving Bonner’s desire to leave the Fever, and what role will she play in her next team?

The Controversial Absences: What Happened Behind the Scenes?

Bonner’s rumored departure has raised questions about her off-court behavior and the circumstances that led to her eventual decision to part ways with the Fever. In recent seasons, Bonner has been absent from several games, citing personal reasons. The lack of clarity surrounding these absences only fueled fans’ concerns about her future with the team.

Her absence from the Fever’s lineup has prompted some to question whether she remains fully committed to the team, especially as younger players have started to emerge as key contributors. Some reports have suggested that Bonner may have been unhappy with her reduced role on the court, while others speculate that she may simply be seeking a change of scenery after several years with the Fever.

Sources close to the Fever have yet to comment on whether Bonner’s absences were part of a larger issue or if they simply reflected personal struggles she has been facing. Regardless, it seems clear that her decision to seek a move away from the team is not simply a result of on-court performance but also a reflection of deeper issues within the Fever organization.

The Fallout: What Does This Mean for the Indiana Fever?

If Bonner does indeed leave the Fever, it would represent a significant shift for the team. Bonner was brought in to stabilize a squad in transition, and her departure would leave a hole in the leadership and experience the Fever desperately need. While younger players like Kelsey Mitchell and NaLyssa Smith have stepped up in recent years, Bonner’s absence could create a leadership vacuum that the team would struggle to fill.

Additionally, Bonner’s exit could have ramifications for the Fever’s salary cap and future plans. While the Fever may open up cap space by moving on from Bonner, they will have to find a way to replace her impact on the court—something that could prove difficult, considering her previous contributions when she was firing on all cylinders.

Could This Spark a Bigger Trend in the WNBA?

If Bonner moves on from the Fever, it could signal a wider shift in the WNBA, where players’ priorities are evolving. Many players, particularly veterans, are starting to seek out new opportunities to compete for titles, build better team chemistry, and find a better fit within their organizations. If Bonner, who is well past her prime but still an incredibly talented player, decides to leave the Fever for a title contender, it could inspire other high-profile players to follow suit.

The dynamic of players “moving on” or requesting trades could see more of a shift in the WNBA, potentially creating a more fluid and competitive environment where teams are constantly evolving. As the league continues to grow, this could lead to a new wave of player movement in pursuit of championships, camaraderie, and a more fulfilling career.

The End of an Era? What’s Next for DeWanna Bonner?

DeWanna Bonner has spent the majority of her career carving out a legacy as one of the most skilled players in the WNBA. If she does indeed depart the Fever, it will mark the end of an era. Bonner’s contributions to the league, her previous championship wins, and her leadership in Phoenix will never be forgotten. But if she chooses a new team, it’s clear that her story isn’t over—it’s simply evolving.

For the Fever, a potential rebuild might be in order, with Bonner’s departure forcing them to find new leadership and talent for the coming seasons. And for Bonner, the next chapter in her career could offer fresh opportunities to continue making an impact, whether it’s back in Phoenix, mentoring in Atlanta, or perhaps even another surprise destination.

Conclusion: The Future of Bonner and the Fever

As rumors swirl about DeWanna Bonner’s future, the WNBA is watching closely. Her potential departure from the Indiana Fever is about much more than just a roster move—it’s about the shifting landscape of a league where talent, leadership, and ambition constantly evolve. The question is no longer just about where Bonner will go—it’s about what this means for the broader future of the league. Fans and players alike will be eagerly waiting to see how this drama unfolds and what’s next for the talented veteran.