DeWanna Bonner Reportedly Expected to Sign Mercury Contract after Surprise Fever Exit

Former Indiana Fever forward DeWanna Bonner is expected to sign with the Phoenix Mercury in the coming days, according to ESPN’s Michael Voepel and Josh Weinfuss.

The 37-year-old appeared in just nine games for the Fever this season before being waived on June 25, having missed five games due to personal reasons.

Bonner, originally drafted by the Phoenix Mercury with the No. 5 overall pick in 2009 out of Auburn, is on track to return to the franchise where she spent her first 10 WNBA seasons and won two championships. After being traded to the Connecticut Sun in 2020, Bonner spent five seasons there before signing with the Indiana Fever ahead of the 2025 season.

Although her signing was met with excitement, Bonner appeared in just nine games for the Fever after inking a one-year, $200,000 deal. In limited action, she averaged 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 steals in 21.3 minutes per game.

Bonner released a statement expressing gratitude to the Fever (h/t ESPN):

"I want to sincerely thank the Indiana Fever for the opportunity to be part of the Fever franchise. 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."

The Mercury currently sit tied for second in the WNBA standings with a 12–6 record, positioning themselves as strong contenders as the second half of the season approaches.