Ahead of Monday night’s matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Phoenix Mercury, Fever head coach Stephanie White opened up about DeWanna Bonner’s offseason departure from Indiana — and expressed nothing but support for her former player.
Bonner, a WNBA veteran and five-time All-Star, spent the 2023 season with the Fever after a midseason trade from Connecticut. Though her time in Indiana was brief, it was impactful. Still, following the season, Bonner informed the Fever front office she was ready for a change — and wanted to move west.
Indiana worked with Bonner to facilitate her request, ultimately sending her to the Phoenix Mercury in a sign-and-trade deal. The move reunited Bonner with former teammates and brought her closer to home.
“She was honest with us from the start,” White said during pregame media availability. “She wanted something different, and we respected that. I’m really glad she’s found a place that feels right for her.”
Since arriving in Phoenix, Bonner has thrived, averaging 15.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and providing veteran leadership on a Mercury team fighting for a playoff spot. Her transition has been seamless, and she’s made it clear she’s happy with her new role and teammates.
For White, there’s no resentment — only appreciation.
“I loved coaching DeWanna,” White said. “She’s a pro in every sense of the word. Of course, you want players like that on your team, but I also believe in players doing what’s best for them. If she’s happy, then that’s what matters.”
Bonner also reflected positively on her time in Indiana, saying she appreciated the professionalism of the Fever organization and praised White’s leadership.
“It just wasn’t the right long-term fit for me,” Bonner said. “But I learned a lot there. Coach White is top-tier.”
As the Fever move forward with rising stars like Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, White emphasized that there’s no looking back — only respect for those who’ve moved on and belief in the team’s future.
