Bonner Turned Heads With a Special Game in Her First Appearance

DeWanna Bonner began her career with the Phoenix Mercury, and in her first game, she did something special.

Aug 7, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner (14) celebrates a play against the Indiana Fever during WNBA game at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Phoenix Mercury found a special player in DeWanna Bonner. They drafted her in 2009, after she had successful years with Auburn.

Bonner contributed to the Mercury right away, as she averaged 11.2 points and 5.8 rebounds in her rookie season. She was a reserve at that time, and her solid season led to her winning the Sixth Woman of the Year award. Then, she won it for the next two years.

June 4, 2010; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard DeWanna Bonner (24) drives the ball during the second half in at US Airways Center. The Mercury defeated the Sparks 90-89. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-Imagn Images / Jennifer Stewart-Imagn Images

Her rookie year was a success, as Phoenix also won a championship in that time. They beat the Indiana Fever 3-2 to win it all. So, it is safe to say that Bonner had an excellent rookie year.

In that time, Bonner also had her first double-double. In fact, she had one in her season debut.

Jun 1, 2012; San Antonio, TX, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard DeWanna Bonner (24) is defended by San Antonio Silver Stars guard Jia Perkins (7) during the first half at the AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images / Soobum Im-Imagn Images

At the start of the 2009 season, the Mercury faced the San Antonio Silver Stars. The Mercury beat them 90-79 in that game, and they were led by their talented guards. Diana Taurasi had 25 points, three rebounds and two assists.

Cappie Pondexter was right behind Taurasi, as she had 23 points, five assists and four rebounds. Then, the Mercury's new addition had 16 points and 11 rebounds. She also had two assists in the process.

Bonner started her career on the right foot, and that win over San Antonio was just the beginning of what would be a historic season for the Mercury. Bonner's double-double in that game would not be her last as she had another a few games later.

The Mercury's rookie had 21 points, 10 rebounds and an assist in a game against the Minnesota Lynx. Phoenix won that game as well, as they beat Minnesota 104-80.

Oct 8, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner (14) reacts against the Las Vegas Aces in the second half during game three of the 2025 WNBA Finals at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Bonner comes back to the Mercury

Fast forward to the present, and Bonner returned to Phoenix this year. She joined them after her stint with the Indiana Fever did not work out. Once she returned to the Mercury, she was their best reserves, and she helped them throughout their deep playoff run.

Bonner is a talented player, and adding her to this year's team made them even stronger. She was on the verge of winning another championship, but the Las Vegas Aces put an end to her hopes. Now, the Mercury will look to bring her back, and if they do, she can help them reach the Finals once again.

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