Sheryl Swoopes Offers Insight Into DeWanna Bonner’s Departure From Indiana Fever
The WNBA world is still buzzing with speculation about where veteran forward DeWanna Bonner will land next after her unexpected exit from the Indiana Fever. Bonner, who signed with the Fever in free agency during the offseason, was released last month following her own request for a trade. The departure left fans puzzled, but WNBA icon Sheryl Swoopes recently shed light on what might have led to Bonner’s decision.
Speaking on the July 2 episode of the Levels to This podcast with Terrika Foster-Brasby, Swoopes didn’t hold back in explaining her perspective on the situation. She emphasized that Bonner’s decision appeared rooted in disappointment over a misalignment between what she was promised and the reality she faced with the Fever.
“I think DeWanna Bonner came to the conclusion of ‘This is just not the right fit for me’ when her role changed,” Swoopes said. “DeWanna was very upfront about it. It was a case of, ‘You promised me one thing, but gave me something entirely different.’ And that’s not what she agreed to when she signed.”
Bonner, a six-time WNBA All-Star and one of the league’s most respected veterans, joined the Fever with expectations of playing a significant role. However, she quickly found herself in a diminished position, reportedly being asked to come off the bench—an unusual move for a player of her accomplishments and stature.
Swoopes took a firm stance in defending Bonner’s decision and addressed the backlash the player faced online. “There was a lot of disrespect toward her when she said, ‘I’m out,’” Swoopes noted. “Let’s be real—DeWanna Bonner is Her. She’s got the accolades to prove it. You don’t treat a player of her caliber like that and expect them to just go along with it.”
She went on to say that while not everyone may understand Bonner’s decision, it’s important to respect it. “As a player, especially someone like DeWanna who’s contributed so much to this league, being asked to take a backseat unexpectedly can be a tough pill to swallow. At the end of the day, she made a move that she believed was right for her, and I applaud her for that.”
Swoopes also expressed empathy for Bonner as a person beyond the basketball court. “She did what she needed to do for herself, for her kids, and for her family. I’m not mad at her for that. I might not like how it looks publicly, but I understand it.”
The Indiana Fever’s release of Bonner has certainly stirred conversation, not just because of the move itself, but because of what it says about how franchises handle veteran talent. Bonner’s reputation as a fierce competitor and a proven leader makes her one of the most valuable players available, and her next destination is being watched closely.
For now, the future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—Bonner’s story is one of a player standing up for herself and her worth. While Indiana Fever fans may be disappointed by her departure, her decision serves as a reminder of the importance of mutual respect between players and organizations, especially when it comes to clearly defined roles and expectations.
As Bonner prepares to join a new WNBA team, she carries with her the support of legends like Swoopes and countless fans who understand that, sometimes, walking away is the strongest move a player can make.
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