The Indiana Fever's decision to waive veteran guard/forward DeWanna Bonner has sent shockwaves through the WNBA. Just 22 hours after the announcement, Bonner posted a cryptic message on Instagram, fueling speculation and raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her departure.
Bonner's post, featuring a carousel of three photographs of her training, included the text: "A QUITTER!! Nah never been that!! But when the time comes… 'Let's just make sure the apologies, are just as loud as the disrespect!!' IN DUE TIME .. DB." The message is widely interpreted as a response to accusations that she quit on the team and an appeal for a public apology.
The Fever signed Bonner as a free agent ahead of the 2025 season, hoping that the two-time WNBA champion and six-time All-Star would bring veteran leadership and defensive prowess to the team. However, the fit never seemed to materialize as Bonner struggled to find her role, averaging 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in nine games. She started the first three games but was eventually moved to the bench.
Reports surfaced that Bonner was seeking an exit from the Fever because she didn't feel like she was a "fit" with the franchise. This led to speculation that she was frustrated with her role and playing time, which led to her decision to sit out. Bonner had been away from the team for personal reasons since June 10.
The Fever ultimately waived Bonner, and simultaneously announced the signing of guard Aari McDonald. In a statement, Bonner thanked the Fever for the opportunity but said, "Despite our shared goals and excitement heading into the season, I felt the fit did not work out, and I appreciate the organization's willingness to grant my request to move on, particularly at this point in my career. I wish the Fever great success as they continue to build around this dynamic group of young players."
However, the Instagram post suggests that there is more to the story. By calling out the "disrespect" and demanding that apologies be "just as loud," Bonner hints at a possible rift between herself and the organization. It is also speculated that Bonner is unhappy about being labelled a "quitter" after her departure from the Fever.
Several teams are thought to be interested in claiming Bonner off waivers, including the Connecticut Sun, Golden State Valkyries, and Washington Mystics. However, some reports indicate that teams have been advised not to claim her, with speculation that she prefers to sign with the Phoenix Mercury, where her fiancée Alyssa Thomas plays. The Atlanta Dream are also a possible destination.
The situation has drawn mixed reactions, with some fans criticizing Bonner for giving up on the team and others sympathizing with her situation. WNBA analysts have also weighed in, with some suggesting that the Fever's coaching staff may have mishandled Bonner's role and integration into the team. Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon said that Bonner had a "pretty solid relationship" with Fever coach Stephanie White, who coached Bonner on the Connecticut Sun for two seasons before White joined the Fever.
The Indiana Fever have released a 2-minute statement after DeWanna Bonner's cryptic post sparked speculation shedding light on her unexpected mid-season departure.
Bonner's future remains uncertain, but her cryptic message has made it clear that she feels wronged by the way her departure was handled. Whether she receives the apology she is seeking remains to be seen, but it is clear that this is not the last we will hear from DeWanna Bonner.
