The WNBA world is buzzing following the Indiana Fever's decision to waive veteran forward DeWanna Bonner after trade talks faltered. The move, announced on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, has sent ripples through the league, prompting questions about the circumstances surrounding Bonner's departure and the Fever's handling of the situation.
Bonner, a six-time All-Star and two-time WNBA champion, signed a one-year contract with the Fever in February 2025. Her arrival was initially hailed as a significant addition, with many expecting her to be a key veteran presence alongside 2024 Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark. However, the fit never materialized as envisioned. After starting the first three games, Bonner was moved to the bench, and she has not appeared in a game since June 10, with her absence attributed to "personal reasons."
As it turns out, Bonner had requested a trade. The Fever, unable to find a suitable trade partner, ultimately decided to waive her. According to sources, the primary reason for Bonner's desire to leave was that the fit "was off" from the beginning. In a statement released by the team, Bonner expressed gratitude for the opportunity but acknowledged that "the fit did not work out."
The WNBA community has reacted with a mix of surprise and concern. Some observers have questioned why the Fever signed Bonner in the first place if there were doubts about her fit with the team's existing roster and timeline. Others have criticized the team's communication, pointing to conflicting statements from coach Stephanie White regarding Bonner's status leading up to the waiver announcement.
Adding to the intrigue, reports have surfaced that Bonner has preferred destinations in mind. The Phoenix Mercury, where her fiancée Alyssa Thomas plays, and the Atlanta Dream are rumored to be her preferred landing spots. However, with Bonner's $200,000 contract, it remains uncertain whether either team can accommodate her under the salary cap, potentially without making additional moves. Teams will have 48 hours to claim Bonner off waivers. If she clears waivers, she will become an unrestricted free agent.
The Fever's decision to waive Bonner also has implications for their roster and competitiveness. In a corresponding move, the team re-signed guard Aari McDonald, who had previously played for the Fever on a hardship waiver. While McDonald provides backcourt depth and energy, the Fever will be shorthanded in the frontcourt, particularly with Damiris Dantas set to join the Brazilian national team for the FIBA AmeriCup later this month.
The situation raises broader questions about player movement and team chemistry in the WNBA. Midseason trades are relatively uncommon due to the league's hard salary cap, and integrating new players into an established team can be challenging. The Bonner case serves as a reminder that even the most talented players may not always thrive in every situation, and that team fit and culture are crucial factors in achieving success.
As Bonner enters waivers, the WNBA community will be watching closely to see where she lands and how the Fever adjust to her departure. The unfolding drama underscores the complexities of team building and the ever-present tension between individual aspirations and collective goals in professional sports.
