The Indiana Fever announced on Wednesday the decision to waive DeWanna Bonner, granting the experienced player her unconditional release after a long-standing career spanning 16 years. Bonner had been absent from the team since June 12 due to personal matters, resulting in her missing five games. Since joining the Fever as a free agent in February, she had been averaging 7.1 points and 3.8 rebounds per game.
In a statement, Bonner expressed her gratitude toward the Indiana Fever organization. “I want to sincerely thank the Indiana Fever for the opportunity to be part of the Fever franchise,” she conveyed. “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.”
Throughout her accomplished career in the WNBA, Bonner consistently recorded double-figure scoring each season and has taken on the role of a full-time starter since 2012, during stints with Phoenix and Connecticut. However, during her tenure with Indiana, she started only three out of the nine games she participated in. She achieved a notable milestone by climbing to third place on the league’s all-time scoring list in the season opener.
At 37 years of age, Bonner will remain on waivers for 48 hours, a period during which teams have the option to claim her and take over the remaining portion of her $200,000 contract. Should no team pick her up, she will then become an unrestricted free agent, allowing her to sign with any team for the prorated veteran minimum.
In a subsequent move, Indiana re-signed guard Aari McDonald, who had previously excelled with the team when brought in on a hardship contract earlier in the month. During her stint, McDonald impressed by averaging 11 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.0 steals.
“From the moment she arrived in Indy, Aari was a clear fit with the style and mentality we are building here with the Fever,” stated Fever COO and GM Amber Cox. “Though only here a few games, her impact as a playmaker and a defender was evident. We are very excited to welcome her back for the remainder of the season.”