Questions have swirled in early June 2025 about the presence of DeWanna Bonner’s banner at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, sparking speculation about her future with the Indiana Fever. The six-foot-four forward, sidelined for personal reasons since June 10, has not played since the team’s game against Atlanta. This absence, paired with the apparent removal of Bonner-related images from her social media profiles, prompted many to question whether she might be retiring from professional basketball. However, reliable reports confirm that the banner acknowledging her contributions still hangs in the Fever’s home arena.
Context Behind DeWanna Bonner’s Recent Absence
Veteran forward DeWanna Bonner was expected to contribute significantly to the Indiana Fever both on the court and as a mentor within the locker room. Despite these high hopes, Bonner has struggled to find her rhythm during the current season, leading to her being ruled out of recent games due to undisclosed personal reasons. Since the Fever’s loss to the Atlanta Dream on June 10, Bonner has remained absent, leaving fans and observers uncertain about her status.
Meanwhile, social media activity fueled retirement rumors, further intensified by the observation of a photo that seemed to suggest her banner had been removed from Gainbridge Fieldhouse. This image circulated widely but was later shown to be misleading after a fact-check from a credible source.
Insider Confirmation from Reporter Chloe Peterson on Banner Status
Chloe Peterson, a reporter covering the Fever, addressed the controversy directly via social media. She confirmed that as of June 17—the date of the Fever’s last home game—DeWanna Bonner’s banner was still hanging prominently at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The photo circulating online that appeared to show the banner missing was revealed to be edited, with Bonner’s banner deliberately cropped out.
“It was hanging in Gainbridge as of June 17, the last time the Fever had a home game. That photo circulating cut out Bonner’s banner, which was hanging at the end.” — Chloe Peterson, Reporter
This clarification dispels the rumors about the banner’s removal, affirming that it continues to recognize Bonner’s role on the team despite her current absence. Peterson’s confirmation contributes to calming fears among fans while the broader situation remains unresolved.
Uncertainty Surrounds Bonner’s Professional Future
While the banner’s presence at Gainbridge Fieldhouse is now confirmed, DeWanna Bonner’s ultimate plans with the Indiana Fever or in professional basketball remain unclear. The reasons behind her absence have not been publicly disclosed, and the WNBA community remains uncertain whether this situation signals an impending retirement or simply a personal hiatus. Bonner’s significant stature in the league and her veteran leadership make this uncertainty meaningful for teammates, staff, and supporters alike.
The Indiana Fever team, coached by Stephanie White, is also facing challenges as Bonner’s absence affects roster depth and team dynamics. White’s staff has been navigating these difficulties quietly while hoping for Bonner’s smooth return. The next Fever home game after June 17 could be telling in terms of Bonner’s status on the court and in the arena.
The Bigger Picture and What’s Next for the Indiana Fever
This episode highlights how closely fans and media monitor professional athletes’ appearances and social media, with symbols like banners generating significant attention and interpretation. The confirmation that DeWanna Bonner’s banner remains at Gainbridge Fieldhouse is a small but important piece of the puzzle amid ongoing speculation.
The Fever’s season continues while supporters watch for updates regarding Bonner’s personal situation. Whether she returns to contribute on the court or decides on a different path, the team’s handling of her absence will have consequences for both on-court performance and locker room morale. In the coming weeks, as new information emerges, the WNBA community will likely gain further clarity.