The Indiana Fever has waived DeWanna Bonner and signed a familiar face for the rest of the season.
Indiana announced the release of Bonner on June 25 after Front Office Sports reported she had no interest in returning to play for the Fever on June 24. The franchise also announced on June 25 the signing of Aari McDonald, who played three games for the team this season on a hardship contract.
“I want to sincerely thank the Indiana Fever for the opportunity to be part of the Fever franchise,” said Bonner.
“Despite our shared goals and excitement heading into the season, I felt the fit did not work out, and I appreciate the organization’s willingness to grant my request to move on, particularly at this point in my career.”
“I wish the Fever great success as they continue to build around this dynamic group of young players.”
Bonner’s Next Steps
According to Front Office Sports, Indiana was unsuccessful in finding a trade partner before waiving the 6-time All-Star.
Interested teams will have 48 hours to pick up Bonner off waivers. If a team commits to picking her up off waivers, they would be financially responsible for her $200,000 contract.
The Fever will only be responsible for the time she was on the roster if she is picked up off the waiver wire. If the 37-year-old is not claimed, she will become a free agent.
According to multiple reports, Bonner’s preferred destination is the Phoenix Mercury. She was drafted by Phoenix fifth overall in the 2009 WNBA draft.
Familiar Face?
On the flip side, Indiana signed back McDonald who became a fan favorite in her short time with the franchise this season. Although, Bonner was a key free-agent signing, adding the younger guard to the roster bolsters the backcourt.
In addition to Caitlin Clark, Sydney Colson, and Kelsey Mitchell, McDonald adds another strong ball handler. Fever management expressed their excitement to add the 26-year-old guard to the roster.
“From the moment she arrived in Indy, Aari was a clear fit with the style and mentality we are building here with the Fever,” said COO & General Manger Amber Cox on June 25.
“Though only here a few games, her impact as a playmaker and a defender was evident. We are very excited to welcome her back for the remainder of the season.”
Indiana Moving Forward
McDonald averaged 11 points, three assists, and two steals in her three-game stint with Indiana. Needless to say, she is still excited about the opportunity to improve and help her team.
“I’m so excited to rejoin the Fever. Although my time with the team was brief, it immediately felt like the place to be,” said McDonald. “I’m grateful for the warm welcome from the coaches, teammates, and fans – and most of all, I thank God for the incredible journey I’m on.”
During McDonald’s first stint as a hardship signee, she didn’t get to play with Sophie Cunningham or Clark. However, the team is healthy and is on a one-game winning streak.
Indiana recently defeated the Seattle Storm 94-86 on the road at the Climate Pledge Arena. The team will face off against the Los Angeles Sparks on June 26.
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