DeWanna Bonner’s career is a testament to hard work, adaptability, and consistent excellence. From her early days as a rookie with the Phoenix Mercury to her current role as a leader for the Connecticut Sun, Bonner has always risen to the occasion
Her ability to perform in the playoffs, her leadership on and off the court, and her influence on younger players make her one of the most respected figures in the WNBA today.
DeWanna Bonner’s legacy in the WNBA is undeniable. She is a two-time WNBA champion, multiple-time All-Star, and a perennial All-Defensive team member.
Her versatility, work ethic, and leadership have earned her respect across the league, and she continues to be a role model for young players.
As she continues her career with the Connecticut Sun, Bonner remains a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA, proving that her longevity and consistency have made her one of the league’s greatest players.
Her influence extends beyond the court, as she continues to inspire the next generation of athletes with her talent, resilience, and advocacy.
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Table of Contents
DeWanna Bonner: Journey from Phoenix to Connecticut
DeWanna Bonner has established herself as one of the most versatile and impactful players in the WNBA.1
Her career, which began in 2009, has been marked by championship success, playoff consistency, and individual brilliance.
From winning titles with the Phoenix Mercury to becoming a key player for the Connecticut Sun, Bonner’s legacy in the league is undeniable.
Her college career was a stellar one, and she finished as Auburn’s all-time leading scorer. Known for her scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and versatility, Bonner’s performance in college basketball led to high expectations for her future in the WNBA.
During her senior year at Auburn, Bonner averaged 21.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, earning her Southeastern Conference (SEC) Player of the Year honors. Her combination of height, speed, and basketball IQ made her one of the most exciting prospects in the 2009 WNBA Draft.
Such a dope/fun experience!! Thank you @SLAMonline !! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/YBEI7LF0mB
— Dewanna Bonner (@DEEBONNER24) July 18, 2024
WNBA Draft and Immediate Success with the Phoenix Mercury
In the 2009 WNBA Draft, Bonner was selected fifth overall by the Phoenix Mercury. Coming into a team that already featured stars like Diana Taurasi and Cappie Pondexter, Bonner was a crucial addition to an already stacked roster.
In her rookie season, she immediately made an impact, playing a pivotal role in the Mercury’s 2009 championship run. Bonner’s ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and score in a variety of ways added a new dimension to the Phoenix lineup.
During the 2009 season, Bonner averaged 11.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. Though primarily coming off the bench, her contributions were undeniable, and she won the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year award in her first season.
The Mercury’s combination of veteran leadership and young talent led them to their second WNBA Championship that year.
A Key Contributor in the 2014 Championship
Bonner’s success in Phoenix continued as she evolved from a supporting player into a vital part of the team’s core.
In 2014, the Mercury once again found themselves at the pinnacle of the WNBA, winning their third title. Bonner’s role had expanded significantly since her rookie season, and she was now considered one of the team’s most dependable players.
In the 2014 season, Bonner averaged 10.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. While her statistics didn’t always reflect her full impact on the court, her defense, versatility, and leadership were critical to the Mercury’s success.
Bonner’s ability to play both forward positions allowed Phoenix to employ various lineups, making them a nightmare matchup for opponents. She played a key role in the Mercury’s championship series against the Chicago Sky, helping the team sweep the finals.
DeWanna Bonner: The Evolution of Her Game
One of the most impressive aspects of DeWanna Bonner’s career is how her game has evolved over time.2
Known early in her career for her scoring and rebounding, Bonner gradually developed into one of the WNBA’s most well-rounded players. Her height (6’4″) allows her to play multiple positions, and she became equally adept at guarding opponents on the perimeter or in the post.
Bonner also improved her shooting range over the years, becoming a more reliable threat from beyond the arc. Her ability to score in various ways, combined with her defensive versatility, made her one of the WNBA’s most complete players.
She could take over games offensively when needed, but was equally capable of contributing through her defense and playmaking.
In 2012, 2013, and 2015, Bonner was named a WNBA All-Star, highlighting her status as one of the league’s top talents. She consistently ranked among the league leaders in points and rebounds, and her defensive impact was always recognized by coaches and analysts alike.
Transition to the Connecticut Sun
After spending a decade with the Phoenix Mercury, Bonner was traded to the Connecticut Sun in February 2020.
This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in her career, as she became the face of the Sun franchise.
Despite being in the later stages of her career, Bonner’s impact on the Sun was immediate.
In her first season with Connecticut, Bonner averaged 19.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, continuing to show her ability to dominate games on both ends of the floor.
She helped lead the Sun to the playoffs in 2020, where they made a deep postseason run, falling just short of the WNBA Finals. Her leadership, experience, and championship pedigree were invaluable to a young and talented Sun roster.
Since joining the Sun, Bonner has consistently been one of the team’s top performers. She earned her fourth All-Star selection in 2021, reaffirming her status as one of the WNBA’s elite players even in her thirties.
Under Bonner’s leadership, the Sun have become perennial contenders, regularly making the playoffs and competing for a championship.
DeWanna Bonner: Playoff Success and Longevity
Bonner’s playoff resume is one of the most impressive in WNBA history. Over her 14-year career, she has consistently helped her teams reach the postseason, where her versatility and experience shine through.3
Her playoff career averages of 13.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game reflect her ability to perform when it matters most.
Her postseason success started early with Phoenix, where she won two championships in 2009 and 2014. Since joining Connecticut, Bonner has continued to make deep playoff runs, further cementing her legacy as a winner.
The Sun reached the semifinals in her first season and have been a constant presence in the postseason ever since.
Bonner’s ability to adapt her game as she has aged is a testament to her basketball IQ and work ethic. Even as her athleticism has waned slightly, she remains one of the most productive players in the league.
Her ability to score in a variety of ways, combined with her defensive acumen, makes her a player that teams rely on heavily in the playoffs.
Impact on the Next Generation
Throughout her career, Bonner has been a role model for younger players, both in the WNBA and beyond. Her work ethic, dedication to improving her game, and leadership qualities have inspired a new generation of athletes.
As one of the league’s veteran players, Bonner has embraced her role as a mentor, helping younger teammates navigate the challenges of professional basketball.
Bonner’s influence extends beyond the court as well. She has been active in community service and has used her platform to advocate for social justice issues.
Her commitment to using her voice for positive change has made her a respected figure not just in basketball, but in society as a whole.
DeWanna Bonner: Bio
Early Life and Family Background
DeWanna Bonner was born on August 21, 1987, in Fairfield, Alabama, to LaShelle Bonner and Greg McCall.
Bonner grew up in a close-knit family, surrounded by her three siblings: Vin’Centia Dewberry, Justin McCall, and Erica McCall, with whom she shares her birthday. Sports played a significant role in her family’s life.
Her sister Erica McCall, like Bonner, pursued a career in professional basketball and currently plays in the WNBA, adding a unique dynamic to their bond as sisters and fellow athletes.
Bonner’s athletic ability was evident from an early age, with her natural talent shining through in multiple sports. However, it was basketball that captured her attention and motivated her to excel.
From a young age, Bonner demonstrated the potential to become a standout player, and her passion for the sport grew stronger over time.
High School Success at Fairfield High
DeWanna Bonner attended Fairfield High School in her hometown of Fairfield, Alabama, where she made a name for herself as one of the best high school basketball players in the country.
During her high school years, Bonner’s exceptional performance on the basketball court garnered significant attention from recruiters nationwide.
As a standout player, Bonner earned prestigious accolades, including being named a McDonald’s All-American and a WBCA All-American.
These honors qualified her to participate in the All-America Games, where she showcased her skills against the top high school talent in the nation. Bonner was also featured in USA Today as one of the top 25 recruits in the country, a testament to her talent and growing reputation.
Her exceptional play led to her being named the Gatorade Alabama Player of the Year, further highlighting her dominance in high school basketball.
DeWanna Bonner: Career
College Career at Auburn University
After graduating from Fairfield High School, Bonner committed to Auburn University, where she embarked on an impressive college basketball career.
She majored in psychology while excelling on the basketball court, becoming one of Auburn’s most accomplished players. During her time at Auburn, Bonner made significant strides in her development as a player, both offensively and defensively.
Bonner played under head coach Nell Fortner and quickly became a focal point of Auburn’s team. Her scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and defensive versatility allowed her to dominate opponents and earn recognition as one of the top players in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Bonner’s athleticism, length, and basketball IQ were key attributes that enabled her to have a successful collegiate career.
During her senior year, Bonner led Auburn to the NCAA Tournament, helping the Tigers reach the second round.
By the time she graduated, she had cemented her place in Auburn history, finishing her career as the school’s all-time leading scorer and establishing herself as a premier player in women’s college basketball.
Drafted by the Phoenix Mercury
- After a stellar college career at Auburn, DeWanna Bonner declared for the 2009 WNBA Draft. She was selected by the Phoenix Mercury with the fifth overall pick in the first round.
- Her transition to the professional ranks was seamless, as she immediately made an impact in her rookie season with the Mercury.
- Bonner’s versatility and ability to play multiple positions made her a valuable asset to Phoenix. She was primarily known for her ability to score from various spots on the floor and her rebounding skills, which allowed her to contribute in many ways.
- Bonner quickly became a key part of the Mercury’s rotation, and she played a significant role in the team’s success.
- In her rookie season, Bonner helped lead the Phoenix Mercury to a WNBA championship, providing valuable minutes off the bench and contributing in crucial moments.
- Her ability to come in and make an impact in a supporting role earned her the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year award, the first of three consecutive times she would win the honor.
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International Career and Macedonian Citizenship
In addition to her success in the WNBA, DeWanna Bonner has also had a notable international career, playing for teams overseas during the WNBA offseason.
She has played in countries such as Spain, Russia, and Turkey, where she has continued to develop her game and maintain her high level of play.
One unique aspect of Bonner’s career is her Macedonian citizenship. In 2018, Bonner obtained citizenship from North Macedonia, enabling her to represent the country in international competition.
This move allowed Bonner to play in European leagues as a local player, enhancing her opportunities to play for top clubs.
Bonner’s experience playing abroad has added new dimensions to her game, as she has competed against some of the world’s best players in different basketball environments.
Her time overseas has further enriched her basketball career and added to her already impressive résumé.
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