DeWanna Bonner has re-established herself as a key reserve for the Phoenix Mercury after a brief stint with the Indiana Fever that did not pan out. Upon her return to Phoenix, Bonner has consistently delivered strong performances off the bench, echoing her early career years when she primarily contributed as a sixth woman before securing a spot in the starting lineup.

Outstanding Early Career Performances and Sixth Woman Accolades

Bonner earned recognition as the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year from 2009 to 2011, which marked her rise in the league and paved the way for her transition into a starter role. Throughout this period, her performances were exceptional, setting the stage for some of her most memorable games with the Mercury.

Historic 38-Point Game Against the San Antonio Stars

One of Bonner’s standout games during her time with Phoenix came in 2012 against the San Antonio Stars. Despite the Mercury narrowly losing 82-81, Bonner led the team in scoring with 38 points. She was one of only two Mercury players to score in double digits that game, alongside Charde Houston, who put up 19 points. Bonner also contributed eight rebounds, two steals, and an assist, demonstrating her all-around impact on the court in that tightly contested outing.

Another Explosive 38-Point Performance Versus the Dallas Wings

Four years later, Bonner once again scored 38 points in a game against the Dallas Wings during the early 2016 season. Coming off the bench, she also added six rebounds, three steals, and two assists, showcasing her ability to energize the team in a reserve role. Despite her efforts, the Mercury fell 117-111. This game also featured strong contributions from other starters, including Penny Taylor with 21 points, five rebounds, four assists, and a steal; Candice Dupree with 19 points, eight rebounds, an assist, and a steal; and Brittney Griner recording 11 points, nine rebounds, three blocks, two steals, and an assist.

Notably, Diana Taurasi had a quieter scoring night with nine points but contributed six assists and two steals. Bonner’s performance in this game stood out as an intense and memorable effort, underlining her value coming off the bench.

Career-High 41 Points While with the Connecticut Sun

Although some of Bonner’s most explosive games were with Phoenix, she later achieved a career-high 41 points in a win against the Las Vegas Aces while playing for the Connecticut Sun. This milestone highlighted her scoring prowess beyond her time with the Mercury.

Legacy of Bonner’s Exceptional Performances for the Mercury

DeWanna Bonner’s tenure with the Phoenix Mercury is marked by significant scoring outbursts and vital contributions off the bench. Her performances against San Antonio and Dallas particularly stand out as highlights in her Mercury career. As a veteran player, Bonner continues to demonstrate her passion, determination, and impact, remaining a valuable asset to the team.

Fans eagerly anticipate Bonner’s next game, where her dynamic play off the bench could once again influence the Mercury’s fortunes on the court.