Sophie Cunningham, a key player for the Indiana Fever, has publicly criticized former teammate DeWanna Bonner for her abrupt departure from the team during the 2025 WNBA season. Bonner, a veteran player who had previously played for the Phoenix Mercury, left the Fever just nine games into the season, citing personal reasons. The team attempted to trade her, but Bonner ultimately left, and the Fever released her on June 29, 2025. Later that same month, Bonner rejoined the Mercury, the team where she began her WNBA career in 2009.
Cunningham, who had previously played alongside Bonner at the Mercury, expressed her disappointment with how Bonner handled her departure. She praised Bonner’s basketball skills and acknowledged her contributions to the game, but she believed her exit was unprofessional. Cunningham suggested that there is a respectful way to part ways with a team, such as sending a message to teammates to express appreciation or well-wishes. She emphasized that Bonner should have anticipated the negative fan reaction, given the circumstances of her departure.
Bonner’s return to Indianapolis for a game against the Fever led to a surprising and unwelcoming reception from fans, who booed her. Cunningham acknowledged the fan backlash but expressed a more neutral stance, noting that Bonner was nearing the end of her career and deserved to be happy. While she sympathized with Bonner’s personal situation, Cunningham also highlighted the importance of professionalism in handling such transitions. Meanwhile, other Mercury stars, like Kahleah Copper, voiced their disapproval of the fan behavior, calling the situation distasteful. Copper, a four-time All-Star and WNBA champion, expressed admiration for Bonner’s contributions to the league and questioned the rationale behind the fan’s disrespect.
The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the treatment of veteran players and the dynamics between teams and their fan bases. Bonner’s case highlights the complexities of player transitions in professional sports, where personal and professional relationships can be delicate. The situation has also raised questions about the role of fans in shaping the perception of athletes, particularly those who have made significant contributions to their sport.