WNBA veteran DeWanna Bonner agreed to a buyout with the Phoenix Mercury, and at 39 years old, she’s not messing around: a championship is the only thing on her mind. This six-time All-Star, who already snagged two titles with Phoenix in 2009 and 2014, is ready for a new chapter in what could be her final WNBA season. Talk about an immediate shake-up to the league!
Bonner’s Phoenix Exit Was No Accident
Let’s be real, this move wasn’t random. Bonner’s departure from Phoenix comes with the Mercury officially out of playoff contention at a 13-24 record. It’s tough, but sometimes you gotta make the call. Phoenix General Manager Nick U’ren said it himself: “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 just any player we’re talking about, either. In her 17th WNBA season, the 6-foot-4 wing is still averaging a solid 10.6 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. She’s a dynamic scorer, a versatile threat, and an elite rebounder, ranking in the top five for most career rebounds in league history. Yeah, she’s still got it.
Two Teams Are In a Dogfight For Bonner’s Talents
So, where does a 39-year-old, two-time champ, and future Hall of Famer land? Two teams immediately jump out as serious contenders, each with their own set of circumstances. First up, the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces. Their starting forward NaLyssa Smith went down with a non-contact left knee injury against Toronto recently, and suddenly, Bonner’s availability looks like perfect timing. The Aces have already been dealing with depth issues since Chennedy Carter left, so Bonner would be a massive boost for the last stretch of the regular season. But here’s the kicker: Las Vegas doesn’t have the cap space. They’d need a hardship exception, which is a big “if.”
Then there’s the Atlanta Dream. These guys are serious. They’re sitting fourth in the WNBA standings at 24-13, just one game behind the Aces, and they even beat Vegas last week. Angel Reese is playing some of the best basketball of her career, making them a true championship contender. What do the Dream need? Depth! They’re averaging the second-fewest bench points per game in the league, just 17.4. Bonner’s veteran leadership, versatility, and wing options are exactly what they’re missing. And guess what? The Dream *do* have the cap space to sign her. No tricky exceptions needed there. The New York Liberty (23-15, sixth in the WNBA) are also in the mix, but the source makes it clear they are “questionable” as a serious championship contender despite their talent on paper.
This isn’t just about one player switching teams; it’s about a future legend making one last push for glory. Whether it’s the Aces figuring out their cap space or the Dream solidifying their bench, DeWanna Bonner’s next move is going to send shockwaves through the WNBA. What a way to finish a career, right? Get ready, because the WNBA title race just got a whole lot more intense.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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