Fever releasing DeWanna Bonner after All-Star left team for ‘personal reasons’

The Fever and DeWanna Bonner are going their separate ways after nine games, with the club announcing Wednesday it’s waiving the six-time WNBA All-Star.

“I want to sincerely thank the Indiana Fever for the opportunity to be part of the Fever franchise. 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,” Bonner, 37, said Wednesday in a statement.

“I wish the Fever great success as they continue to build around this dynamic group of young players.”

Bonner, who signed with the Fever in the offseason as a veteran presence around Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, had been away from the team since June 12 due to “personal reasons.”

Head coach Stephanie White said Saturday there was “no timeline” for Bonner’s return.

It was reported days later that Bonner — who had come off the bench for six games — did not intend to return to the club and had requested a trade, according to the Indy Star, citing league sources.

Although the Fever “looked for trade opportunities,” Bonner’s contract ($200,000 unprotected) presented difficulty, as did the early-season timing of it all, per the Indy Star.

Should Bonner clear waivers within 48 hours, she’ll be an unrestricted free agent and free to sign elsewhere.

Bonner, a two-time WNBA champion, is averaging 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists this season. She scored five points in her last Fever appearance on June 10, a 77-58 loss to the Atlanta Dream.

The Fever, currently 7-7, also announced Wednesday they have signed guard Aari McDonald through the remainder of the season to take Bonner’s place on the roster.

She was waived by the team earlier this month.

“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, who appeared in three games. “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.”

Indiana wrapped its West Coast road trip Tuesday with a 94-86 win over the Seattle Storm and will host the Los Angeles Sparks on Thursday night.