DeWanna Bonner's return to Indianapolis to face the Indiana Fever as a member of the Phoenix Mercury was met with a less-than-warm reception, highlighting the unceremonious end to her brief stint with the team. Signed with high expectations in February 2025, Bonner's time with the Fever proved to be a disappointment, leading to a trade request and subsequent waiving.

Bonner, a seasoned veteran and former WNBA champion, joined the Fever with hopes of bolstering the team's performance. However, she struggled to find her footing, averaging career lows in points (7.1) and rebounds (3.8) over nine games. After being benched just three games into the season, Bonner reportedly requested a trade, citing a lack of on-court chemistry. With no suitable trade partner found, the Fever ultimately waived her in late June.

The Fever's fans did not forget Bonner's short and unsuccessful time with the team. Upon her return to Gainbridge Fieldhouse in a Mercury jersey, Bonner was met with loud boos from the crowd. The jeers intensified when she stepped to the free-throw line, and some fans went as far as yelling "quitter" at the veteran player, a clear jab at her decision to leave the team so quickly.

Despite the hostile reception, Bonner stated that she had no regrets about how things unfolded. "I think my journey is my journey, and I'm going to accept that," Bonner said. "It carried me to where I am now in Phoenix, and it happened that way for a reason".

Fever coach Stephanie White also addressed Bonner's departure and subsequent success with the Mercury. "I think she's fit in perfectly with Phoenix," White said. "She's comfortable there, she's comfortable in that system". White added, "But I'm glad that she's happy and I'm glad that she's found her spot".

The Fever have made other roster changes, including signing Aari McDonald. With Caitlin Clark potentially sidelined due to injury, the Fever may look to make a trade to bolster their frontcourt.