DeWanna Bonner began her impressive career with the Phoenix Mercury after being selected as the fifth overall pick in the 2009 WNBA Draft. She quickly made her mark in the league, bringing significant energy and skill off the bench. Bonner’s rookie season saw her average 11.2 points and 5.8 rebounds over 34 games without starting in any, an impressive feat that helped her earn both a spot on the All-Rookie Team and the coveted Sixth Woman of the Year award.

That same year, Bonner contributed to the Mercury’s championship victory over the Indiana Fever in a thrilling 3-2 series win. Although she would later join the Fever, she eventually returned to the Mercury, where she remains a vital bench player and team leader.

Back-to-Back Success and Increasing Influence

Following her standout rookie season, Bonner continued to prove her value as a top reserve. She secured the Sixth Woman of the Year award for a second consecutive season, averaging 12.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.2 steals. One of her most memorable performances came against the Seattle Storm, where, despite coming off the bench, she led the Mercury in scoring with 24 points. This ability to deliver strong performances as a reserve has been a hallmark of Bonner’s career.

Playing alongside stars like Diana Taurasi and Candice Dupree, Bonner elevated the Mercury’s depth and overall team strength, solidifying her role as a key contributor off the bench.

Achieving a Historic Third Consecutive Sixth Woman Award

In 2011, Bonner achieved an extraordinary milestone by winning her third straight Sixth Woman of the Year award. That season, she averaged 10.7 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal over 34 games, providing consistent production that cemented her status as one of the league’s premier reserves. She started five games that year, showing her versatility and growing importance on the court.

Her success as a reserve paved the way for an expanded role. In 2012, Bonner transitioned into the starting lineup and had a breakout season, posting career-high averages of 20.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.7 steals. This shift marked the beginning of nearly a decade as a reliable starter for both the Phoenix Mercury and, later, the Connecticut Sun.

Returning as a Bench Leader and Team Legend

Now back in a reserve role with the Mercury, Bonner continues to deliver strong performances that illustrate her enduring impact on the team. Recently, she scored 23 points and grabbed seven rebounds in a win over the Indiana Fever, demonstrating that her skills off the bench remain crucial. As one of the Mercury’s most decorated players, Bonner’s legacy grows with every game she plays.

The DeWanna Bonner Sixth Woman Award wins reflect her resilience, adaptability, and passion for the game, inspiring both teammates and fans. Her journey from a promising rookie to a WNBA legend underscores her lasting influence in women’s basketball and the history of the Phoenix Mercury organization.