On June 25, 2025, news surfaced that DeWanna Bonner was leaving the Indiana Fever, surprising many WNBA followers given her recent status. The announcement came just weeks after Bonner, a celebrated player who recently became the third-highest scorer in WNBA history, was marked absent from team activities under the label of personal reasons. This sudden development raises questions about the circumstances behind her departure and the future of her career in professional basketball.
Background: Bonner’s Career Highlights and Recent Struggles
DeWanna Bonner has had an illustrious career spanning over 15 years, including 11 seasons with the Phoenix Mercury where she contributed to two WNBA championships and cemented her legacy as a prolific scorer. However, her stint with the Indiana Fever appeared rocky, with reports indicating tension and Bonner’s absence classified for “personal reasons,” though no specific details have been disclosed publicly.
Bonner addressed the situation with a recent Instagram post emphasizing that she is “not a quitter,” suggesting that those who have disrespected her will owe apologies in time. Her candid message has sparked intense reactions from the basketball community, highlighting the divided opinions on her exit.
Fan Backlash and Online Debate Following Bonner’s Statement
Many fans voiced skepticism and frustration over Bonner’s public remarks, interpreting them as an avoidance of accountability. Some commenters accused her of quitting on the Fever, especially after signing with the team in free agency only to leave abruptly. Reactions on social media reflected a mix of disbelief and criticism:
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!’ In due time…
—DeWanna Bonner
She’s so cringe. You literally ARE a quitter. She can spin whatever victim narrative she comes up with but that doesn’t change the fact that she made her choice as a free agent and then quit on the team SHE chose to sign with,
—Anonymous user on X
WNBA players ability to be the aggressor and the victim at the same time is fascinating,
—Another user
Lmaooo as she literally quit on a team because she got benched… I think the whole W (at this point) needs some type of psychological help,
—Third commenter
Career Uncertainty Looms as Bonner Faces Future Decisions
At 37 years old and nearing 38, Bonner’s future in the league appears uncertain. Given her extensive career achievements, her sudden split from the Fever could impact prospects for signing with other WNBA teams, who might hesitate to invest in a player who recently exited a team midseason. This situation leaves many wondering if Bonner will return to the WNBA court or consider other paths moving forward.
The ongoing situation underscores challenges veteran athletes sometimes face dealing with personal and professional pressures. Whether Bonner’s departure leads to resolution and reconciliation or a complete departure from the league remains to be seen, but her story is prompting reflection on player-team dynamics and athlete well-being.