WNBA Veteran DeWanna Bonner Seeks Championship Glory

WNBA veteran DeWanna Bonner has agreed to a buyout with the Phoenix Mercury, allowing the six-time All-Star to pursue a championship in what could be her final season in the league.

Bonner, a 39-year-old 6-foot-4 wing, has spent most of her 17-year career with the Mercury, winning two titles in 2009 and 2014. She is a versatile scorer and elite rebounder, ranking in the top five for most career rebounds in WNBA history.

The timing of the buyout was strategic, as Bonner was waived by Monday’s deadline for player playoff eligibility from waivers. This allows her to sign with another team for the remainder of the regular season and participate in the playoffs.

Top Three Landing Spots for DeWanna Bonner

With her buyout in place, Bonner is now free to pursue a championship with another team. Here are the top three contenders:

Las Vegas Aces

The reigning WNBA champions are in need of depth, especially after the departure of Chennedy Carter. Bonner’s availability seems like perfect timing, given NaLyssa Smith’s non-contact left knee injury. However, the Aces would need to secure a hardship exception to sign Bonner due to cap space constraints.

Las Vegas is a championship contender, and adding Bonner’s veteran leadership and scoring ability would make them a more formidable team in the playoffs.

Atlanta Dream

The Dream are averaging the second-fewest bench points per game in the league, making Bonner a valuable addition to their roster. Atlanta has the cap space to sign Bonner and could use her versatility to strengthen their front court.

The Dream are a championship contender, sitting fourth in the WNBA standings, and Bonner’s presence would give them an added boost in the playoffs.

New York Liberty

The Liberty are a talented team, but their championship aspirations are questionable. Bonner could help them turn things around, especially with forward Satou Sabally away indefinitely due to a concussion.

New York has the cap space to sign Bonner, making them a potential landing spot for the veteran forward.

Other Contenders

Other teams, such as the Dallas Wings and Minnesota Lynx, could also be interested in signing Bonner. However, the Wings have had some rough stretches recently, and the Lynx do not have the cap space to sign her.

The timing of Bonner’s buyout and her eligibility to sign with another team for the remainder of the regular season and playoffs make her a highly sought-after free agent.