The Phoenix Mercury are out of the 2026 WNBA playoffs, mathematically confirmed after a tough loss to the Atlanta Dream on Saturday. With their season starting a brutal 2-8, the writing was on the wall, and on Monday, the team announced a contract buyout with veteran forward DeWanna Bonner. This isn’t just a roster move; this is a franchise legend getting a shot to chase a third career championship before what could be her final dance this winter.
Phoenix Says Goodbye To A Legend
It’s always tough to see a player like Bonner leave, especially when she’s been such a foundational piece. General Manager Nick U’Ren made it clear in his statement that this was a mutual decision rooted in respect. He said, “DeWanna has been an important part of our team and brought tremendous leadership, experience and competitiveness to the Mercury. Because of the relationship we have with DeWanna, we worked out a buyout agreement that gives her the opportunity to chase a title in what could be her final postseason. DeWanna will always be part of the Mercury family, and we wish her all the best.” This isn’t a cut; it’s a blessing from the Mercury to let a Hall of Fame talent go contend. She’s given them so much, and now they’re giving her this one last shot.
Bonner’s Incredible Career and What’s Next
Bonner’s resume speaks for itself. Drafted fifth overall by the Mercury in 2009, she started her career by winning Sixth Player of the Year three straight seasons and snagged two championships within her first six years in the league. Even after being traded to the Connecticut Sun in 2020 and helping them reach the Finals in 2022, and a brief, “ill-fated” free agency decision with the Indiana Fever, she returned to Phoenix last year. In her 17th WNBA season, the 38-year-old has continued to be a strong contributor, averaging 10.6 points and 6.1 rebounds for her career. She’s the WNBA’s active scoring leader with 8,200 career points, a six-time All-Star, and a two-time All-WNBA selection. That’s a serious player. Bonner herself stated, “Being able to return to Phoenix and play in front of the best fans in the WNBA these past two seasons has been an incredible experience. At this stage of my career, I don’t know what the future holds, but I’m grateful to the Mercury for giving me the opportunity to play in what could be one of my final postseason opportunities.”
So what’s next for Bonner? Contenders are going to be lining up. This is a chance for a championship-starved team to add an experienced, proven winner who can still deliver in big moments. Every team looking to hoist a trophy this year needs to be calling her agent. She wants that third ring, and you know she’s going to bring that fire to whichever team signs her up for what might be her final postseason run. The stakes couldn’t be higher.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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