WNBA insiders revealed that DeWanna Bonner chose the Indiana Fever over the Minnesota Lynx and Phoenix Mercury for a combination of team fit, growth potential, and a fresh start opportunity.

DeWanna Bonner is a name that has been synonymous with excellence in the WNBA for over a decade. A two-time WNBA Champion, two-time All-Star, and one of the most consistent and versatile players in the league, Bonner has long been regarded as one of the top talents in women’s basketball. Over the years, she has played for the Phoenix Mercury and the Connecticut Sun, but the 2025 offseason marked a pivotal change in her career.

After her contract with Connecticut expired, DeWanna Bonner made the decision to sign with the Indiana Fever, a franchise that has been in rebuilding mode for several seasons. This decision came as a bit of a surprise to many, considering the Fever’s struggles in recent years, compared to more competitive teams like the Minnesota Lynx and her previous team, the Phoenix Mercury. However, insiders within the WNBA have begun to shed light on the reasons behind Bonner’s decision, offering insight into the factors that influenced her choice.

From the outside, it might appear as though Bonner’s decision to leave the Connecticut Sun, a playoff contender, for the Indiana Fever, a team in the midst of rebuilding, could be puzzling. However, as insiders have noted, her choice was driven by a combination of factors, including the potential for personal growth, the opportunity to play a key leadership role, the chance to be part of a team’s revitalization, and her vision for the future.

A Fresh Start for DeWanna Bonner

The decision to leave Connecticut was not one that DeWanna Bonner took lightly. Over her years with the Sun, she became a beloved and integral part of the team, playing a central role in their success. Bonner’s versatility—her ability to contribute as both a scorer and a defender—made her a valuable asset for the Sun, and she consistently delivered strong performances on the court. However, after several years with the team, Bonner recognized that it might be time for a fresh start.

For many players, after a long stint with one team, the idea of a new environment can be invigorating. The prospect of challenging oneself in a different context, working with a new coaching staff, and becoming a leader on a new team can present an exciting opportunity. For Bonner, the chance to join a team in the midst of rebuilding, rather than one already built around championship aspirations, offered the opportunity to help shape the future of a franchise and contribute to its rise.

Indiana’s rebuilding process, while challenging, presented an opportunity for Bonner to bring her experience and leadership to a team that was looking for exactly that. The Fever have been one of the league’s younger teams in recent years, and Bonner’s experience and leadership were seen as crucial pieces for the team’s growth. Her presence on the court and in the locker room is something that can help mentor younger players and help them develop into future stars.

For Bonner, the decision wasn’t about stepping away from the pressure of contending for championships, but rather about playing a larger role in the growth of a young and emerging team. The opportunity to be a part of something from the ground up—a team that was building around young talent like NaLyssa Smith, Queen Egbo, and others—was appealing to her.

The Role of Leadership in Bonner’s Decision

Leadership is a theme that has consistently followed DeWanna Bonner throughout her career. As a player with a wealth of experience and a proven track record, Bonner has long been known for her leadership on and off the court. With the Connecticut Sun, she played an essential role in the team’s identity, helping guide the squad through both its highs and lows.

However, joining a team like the Indiana Fever meant Bonner would be able to take on a more prominent leadership role. The Fever, despite their struggles, have an intriguing roster of young players who are eager to learn and develop, and Bonner recognized that her leadership could help accelerate their growth.

As WNBA insiders pointed out, Bonner’s decision to join the Fever was partially driven by the desire to have more control over her role within the team and to be in a situation where she could step up as one of the key leaders. In Indiana, she would not just be a veteran presence, but a cornerstone of the team’s future, guiding the younger players and setting the tone for the franchise’s culture going forward.

When asked about leadership, Bonner herself acknowledged how important it was to her. “I’ve been fortunate to play with some incredible players throughout my career, but I’m ready to take on more responsibility. I want to help lead a team, to set the example and help develop the younger players. It’s about more than just playing; it’s about helping to build something lasting,” she explained in an interview after the signing.

This type of leadership is especially valuable for a team like the Fever, which is looking to become more competitive. Bonner’s work ethic, experience in high-pressure situations, and ability to mentor young players could be exactly what the Fever need to make strides toward a playoff contention in the future.

Growth Potential for the Indiana Fever

One of the key reasons that insiders noted for Bonner’s decision to choose Indiana over Minnesota and Phoenix was the growth potential of the Fever. Indiana has one of the youngest rosters in the WNBA, with several promising young talents who could develop into future stars. Players like NaLyssa Smith, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 draft, and Queen Egbo, the team’s 2021 first-round selection, provide a solid foundation for the team’s rebuild.

For Bonner, joining a team in the midst of a rebuild offers a unique opportunity. She can serve as both a mentor and a key contributor while also being a major part of the team’s future success. While the team may not be a championship contender immediately, the chance to help build a winning culture and to have a lasting impact on the development of these young players is a compelling reason for Bonner to make the move.

Insiders have indicated that Bonner saw Indiana as a team with untapped potential. The Fever have made some significant strides in recent years, even if their record hasn’t reflected it. The team has been focused on growing its core group of young players, and Bonner’s leadership and scoring ability can help push them toward success in the years to come.

“Bonner has the chance to help elevate the Fever from a rebuilding team to one that can contend in the near future,” said one WNBA insider. “She has the experience, the leadership, and the ability to guide younger players through the ups and downs of the league. That’s exactly what Indiana needs right now.”

The Minnesota Lynx and Phoenix Mercury: The Alternatives

While the Indiana Fever presented a promising opportunity for Bonner, both the Minnesota Lynx and Phoenix Mercury were also in the mix for her services. For those who are unfamiliar with the dynamics of these teams, it’s worth exploring why Bonner ultimately chose the Fever over these established contenders.

The Minnesota Lynx, a team with a rich championship pedigree, have been one of the most successful franchises in WNBA history. Under head coach Cheryl Reeve, the Lynx have won four championships and are always in the playoff hunt. However, after several years of sustained success, the Lynx are in a period of transition. While they still boast a strong core, including veterans like Sylvia Fowles and star player Napheesa Collier, the Lynx are rebuilding their roster and trying to establish a new era of dominance.

For Bonner, joining the Lynx would have meant being part of a contending team. But insiders suggested that she may have been looking for a situation where she could play a more pivotal role in shaping the future of a franchise, rather than joining an already established contender.

On the other hand, returning to the Phoenix Mercury was another option for Bonner, and one that could have brought her back to familiar surroundings. The Mercury, led by Diana Taurasi, have been a powerhouse in the WNBA for years, and Bonner won a championship with the team in 2014. However, the Mercury have been in a state of flux in recent seasons, and the team has struggled to regain its former glory. With the retirement of key players like Brittney Griner and an unclear path forward, Phoenix may not have offered the same growth potential that Bonner saw in Indiana.