DeWanna Bonner will make her first appearance at Gainbridge Fieldhouse since leaving the Indiana Fever earlier this season, as the Phoenix Mercury visit the Fever on Wednesday. This highly anticipated game marks Bonner’s return to Indiana amid lingering tensions following her sudden exit.
After signing with Indiana via free agency during the offseason, Bonner parted ways with the team following only nine games. She requested a trade, citing a mismatch in team fit. When no suitable trade partner emerged, the Fever waived her, allowing Bonner to join the Mercury. Since then, she has settled into a system that better complements her style of play.
The atmosphere surrounding Bonner’s return is expected to be charged, given many Fever fans felt she abandoned the team. Despite this, Indiana’s head coach Stephanie White spoke respectfully about Bonner’s new role in Phoenix.
“I think she fits in perfectly with Phoenix,” White told reporters on Tuesday. “Her and AT play so well together, and she does a really good job of adding a different dimension with her ability to be that stretch four… she’s comfortable in that system.”
—Stephanie White, Indiana Fever coach
Bonner’s statistics since joining the Mercury showcase her positive impact. Over six games, she has averaged 11.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game while shooting efficiently, with a 45.8% field goal percentage and 38.1% from beyond the arc.
Broadcast Details for Mercury vs. Fever Matchup Featuring DeWanna Bonner
The Phoenix Mercury face the Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Wednesday, July 30, with tipoff scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Fans can watch the game live on local sports networks including FanDuel Sports Network – Indiana, Arizona’s Family 3TV, Arizona’s Family Sports, and Merc+.
Additionally, the game is available to stream via the WNBA League Pass and the Fubo TV app and website, though regional viewing restrictions may apply. This broadcast offers a rare chance to witness Bonner play against her former team on their home court.
Bonner’s return to Indiana is significant not only for its personal and emotional context but also for how it highlights her journey this season. Having found her footing with the Mercury, her performance against the Fever could influence her ongoing role and the evolving dynamics between the two teams moving forward.