The Indiana Fever signed DeWanna Bonner in February, aiming to add veteran championship experience to their roster. However, Bonner will miss her third consecutive game as she did not travel with the team for their upcoming matchup against the Golden State Valkyries.

Bonner’s absence was confirmed by ESPN, which listed her as out for the Fever’s Thursday game versus the Valkyries. The team has already faced adversity this season, especially after star guard Caitlin Clark was sidelined indefinitely due to a left quadriceps strain, an injury sustained in a close 90-88 loss to the New York Liberty last month.

Bonner’s Role Highlighted During Clark’s Absence

Caitlin Clark missed five games because of her injury, during which Bonner stepped up as a key contributor. Using her experience and leadership, Bonner helped the Fever earn two wins while Clark was out. Since Clark’s return in Saturday’s 102-88 victory over the Liberty, however, Bonner has been sidelined for personal reasons not publicly disclosed.

Throughout this season, Bonner has played nine games, starting three, and has averaged 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, filling various roles both as a starter and off the bench. Her standout performance came on May 28, scoring 21 points in a narrow 83-77 loss to the Washington Mystics.

Coach Stephanie White Addresses Bonner’s Availability

Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White provided an update on Bonner’s condition, describing her status as uncertain. The exact timeline for Bonner’s return remains unclear.

“Stephanie White says DeWanna Bonner’s status is “purely day-to-day” and she didn’t specify if she would be going on the Fever’s weeklong road trip starting on Thursday,” Indy Star’s Chloe Peterson tweeted on Tuesday.

The Fever are scheduled for a challenging three-game road trip beginning Thursday, facing the Golden State Valkyries in the Bay Area, then traveling to Las Vegas to play the Aces, and finishing in Seattle against the Storm. With Bonner’s potential absence looming, the team faces a difficult test ahead.

Road Trip Challenges Without a Key Veteran Player

Without Bonner’s veteran presence and versatility, the Fever will struggle to find consistency. Coach White must navigate the upcoming fixtures while adapting rotations and strategies in the absence of one of her top players. This road trip will not only test the team’s endurance but also White’s ability to rally the squad through adversity.

As Bonner continues to be sidelined for personal reasons, her return remains a hopeful but uncertain prospect for Indiana Fever fans watching this critical stretch of the season unfold.