DeWanna Bonner, a seasoned WNBA player with 511 career games, recently ended her short stint with the Indiana Fever after just nine appearances this season. The veteran forward’s departure was officially announced earlier this week as part of a roster change, prompting the Fever’s general manager Amber Cox to explain the circumstances behind Bonner’s exit.
Bonner’s brief time in Indiana included averaging 7.1 points per game and spending roughly 21 minutes on the court. She missed several games due to personal reasons before the decision was made to release her from the team.
Amber Cox Details Reasoning Behind Bonner’s Exit
Addressing reporters, Amber Cox provided insight into the decision to part ways with Bonner, emphasizing it was a mutual process focused on the veteran’s comfort and fit within the team.
“I think as we were going through the process, it felt better for her to step away as we were sorting through what it was going to look like … it wasn’t a decision any of us made lightly.”
—Amber Cox, Indiana Fever General Manager
Cox praised Bonner’s legacy and contributions to the league, recognizing her as one of the all-time great players.
“DeWanna is obviously a Hall of Famer, a future Hall of Famer and one of the best to ever play our game,”
Cox said.
“We were really excited when she decided to come here in the offseason. But once we got into the season, she expressed that it just didn’t feel like the right fit for her. We talked through it, but couldn’t get it to a place where it felt good for her.”
Aari McDonald Joins the Fever Roster Following Bonner’s Departure
The Fever replaced Bonner on the active roster with Aari McDonald, a 2021 draft pick who has previously played for the Atlanta Dream and Los Angeles Sparks. McDonald had been signed earlier in June on an emergency hardship exception but was briefly released before being brought back to the team.
In her three games this season with the Fever, McDonald averaged 11 points in around 25 minutes per contest, demonstrating potential as a strong contributor moving forward.
Impact and Outlook for Indiana’s Season and Roster
Bonner’s release and McDonald’s return reflect ongoing adjustments as the Indiana Fever navigate their current season. The decision to part with a veteran like Bonner underlines the team’s focus on roster dynamics and player fit rather than contention issues.
This change could shape how the Fever develop chemistry around key players such as Caitlin Clark and integrate younger talent. As the season progresses, the team will aim to balance experience and youth to improve performance and cohesion on the court.