How DeWanna Bonner became a WNBA scoring titan and a perennial league icon
In short: DeWanna Bonner has redefined longevity in professional basketball. From her early dominance at Auburn to becoming the third-highest scorer in WNBA history, her career spans nearly two decades of elite performance. Beyond the court, her journey reflects the evolving landscape of professional sports, from international play to high-profile team transitions.
Born in 1987 in Fairfield, Alabama, Bonner emerged as a standout talent early, earning Gatorade Alabama Player of the Year honors in high school. Her collegiate tenure at Auburn University was marked by record-breaking scoring, where she finished with 2,162 points. This performance set the stage for her 2009 entry into the WNBA, where she was selected fifth overall by the Phoenix Mercury. Her impact was immediate, securing a championship during her rookie season.
Bonner’s professional career is defined by her versatility and consistency. She has achieved the rare feat of being named the league’s top reserve player a record-setting three times. Her scoring prowess reached a historic milestone in May 2025, when she surpassed Tina Thompson to become the third-leading scorer in WNBA history. Throughout her career, she has navigated complex team dynamics, including a notable stint with the Indiana Fever in 2025 that concluded with her being waived, followed by a return to the Phoenix Mercury and a subsequent move to the Atlanta Dream in 2026.
Beyond the WNBA, Bonner has maintained a global presence, competing in leagues across the Czech Republic, Spain, and Russia. Her international profile expanded in 2021 when she began representing North Macedonia after obtaining citizenship. Her personal life has also intersected with her professional one, having been married to teammate Candice Dupree and later becoming engaged to current Mercury teammate Alyssa Thomas. These experiences, combined with her sustained output on the court, underscore a career defined by both individual excellence and an ability to adapt to the shifting demands of modern professional athletics.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: DeWanna Bonner
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