Imagine being a seasoned athlete whose experience and resilience elevate your team when it matters most—that's the story of DeWanna Bonner, whose impact on the Phoenix Mercury's playoff journeys cannot be overstated. But here's where it gets controversial: is her contribution still undervalued in comparison to some of her legendary teammates? Let's dig into her remarkable journey.
DeWanna Bonner began her WNBA career with the Phoenix Mercury back in 2009, marking the start of a long and storied association with the franchise. After spending some years playing for other teams, she made a triumphant return to the Mercury midway through the 2025 season, quickly establishing herself as a key reserve player. During that period, she posted impressive averages—10.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1 assist per game—highlighting her scoring ability and versatility.
When factoring in her entire 2025 season, which also includes her time with the Indiana Fever, her totals rise to 9.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. These numbers illustrate her consistency and her vital role in the team's dynamics. As a veteran now entering her many playoff campaigns, Bonner is no stranger to high-pressure situations—her 15th playoff appearance with Phoenix underscores her longevity and experience.
During the recent playoff run, Bonner demonstrated her often-underrated prowess. Her standout moment was in Game 3 against the Las Vegas Aces, where she exploded for 25 points, complemented by 10 rebounds and a decisive block. Although Phoenix narrowly lost that game 90-88—thanks to a clutch shot from A'ja Wilson—the Mercury showed resilience and fought fiercely on their home court.
Throughout this playoff stretch, Bonner accumulated a total of 100 points. Her playoff scoring places her third in franchise history, behind only legendary figures Diana Taurasi (with 1,486 points) and Brittney Griner (834 points). Bonner's total of 744 points signifies her leadership and scoring ability over the years, and she has the potential to climb even higher on this list as her team continues to compete.
Several current Mercury stars are also making their mark. Kahleah Copper, with 225 points, is eighth on the franchise list; Satou Sabally has 190 points, putting her ninth; and Alyssa Thomas registers 186 points, close behind. These numbers highlight the ongoing contributions of the team’s newer generation.
Looking back, Bonner’s highest scoring playoff run came in 2018, when she amassed 168 points. That postseason was particularly memorable—the Mercury triumphed over Dallas in a single-elimination game and then defeated Connecticut Sun before falling to the Seattle Storm. Despite the loss, Bonner’s outstanding individual performances—averaging 24.0 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.6 steals—cement her reputation as a clutch performer in critical moments.
Her playoff years have consistently showcased her talent and leadership, helping Phoenix advance deep into the postseason and inspiring fans and teammates alike. And this is the part most people miss—her contributions often get overshadowed by her star teammates, yet her experience and consistent performance are what truly hold the team together.
Are you convinced that Bonner’s role is undervalued? Or do you believe other players deserve more recognition for their playoff heroics? Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments!
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