DeWanna Bonner Bio
DeWanna Bonner (born August 21, 1987) is an American-Macedonian professional basketball player for the Phoenix Mercury of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Bonner played college basketball for Auburn University. After a successful college career at Auburn, she was drafted by the Mercury with the fifth overall pick of the 2009 WNBA draft, and was traded to the Connecticut Sun in 2020.
Early Life and Background
DeWanna Bonner was born on August 21, 1987, in Fairfield, Alabama, to LaShelle Bonner and Greg McCall. She has three siblings, including a brother named Justin McCall and two sisters, Vin’Centia Dewberry and Erica McCall. Bonner attended Fairfield High School, where she excelled in basketball and was recognized as a McDonald’s and WBCA All-American. She earned accolades such as the Gatorade Alabama Player of the Year and was featured in USA Today as one of the Top 25 recruits nationwide in 2005.
Bonner continued her education and basketball career at Auburn University, where she earned a degree in psychology. During her time at Auburn, she was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team and had a standout freshman season, leading the team in scoring. By her senior year, she had broken the Auburn career scoring record and was named SEC Player of the Year, finishing her college career with 2,162 points and ranking among the top in several statistical categories.
Path to Basketball
Bonner’s basketball journey began in high school, where she showcased her talent and earned national recognition. Her performance at Fairfield High School led to her recruitment by Auburn University, where she continued to develop her skills and gain valuable experience. After a successful college career, Bonner entered the WNBA draft in 2009, where she was selected fifth overall by the Phoenix Mercury.
Throughout her early career, Bonner made an immediate impact in the WNBA, winning a championship in her rookie season. She has since become a prominent figure in women’s basketball, recognized for her versatility as a shooting guard and small forward. Bonner’s dedication to the sport and her impressive performances have solidified her status as a key player in the league.
DeWanna Bonner Career
Early Career (2009–2014)
Bonner’s professional career began with the Phoenix Mercury in 2009, where she quickly established herself as a formidable player. In her first season, she contributed to the team’s success, helping them secure the WNBA Championship. Her performance earned her the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year award in 2009, and she continued to excel in subsequent seasons.
Over the next few years, Bonner maintained her status as a top player in the league, earning multiple All-Star selections and contributing to the Mercury’s success. In 2014, she won her second WNBA Championship with the team, further solidifying her legacy in the league.
Breakthrough (2015–2019)
Bonner’s breakthrough came in 2015 when she was named to the All-WNBA First Team and earned her first All-Star selection. Her remarkable performance throughout the season showcased her skills and versatility on the court. She continued to be a key player for the Mercury, earning additional All-Star nods in 2018, 2019, and beyond.
In 2017, Bonner took a break from the WNBA season due to pregnancy but returned to the court in 2018, where she was voted into the All-Star Game once again. Her resilience and dedication to the sport have been evident throughout her career, and she remains a significant contributor to her team’s success.
Notable Works and Milestones
Bonner’s signature works include her contributions to the Phoenix Mercury, where she has won two WNBA Championships and been selected as an All-Star multiple times. Her accolades include being named to the All-WNBA First Team and Second Team, as well as receiving recognition for her defensive skills.
DeWanna Bonner Award Nominations
Throughout her career, DeWanna Bonner has received numerous nominations for her outstanding performances in the WNBA. Her consistent excellence on the court has made her a contender for various awards, highlighting her impact in women’s basketball.
DeWanna Bonner Awards Won
DeWanna Bonner has won several prestigious awards during her career, including two WNBA Championships and multiple All-Star selections. Her achievements reflect her skill and dedication to the sport.
DeWanna Bonner Family
DeWanna Bonner is engaged to fellow WNBA player Alyssa Thomas. The couple has twin daughters, born in 2017. Bonner’s family background includes her parents, LaShelle Bonner and Greg McCall, who have supported her throughout her basketball journey.
Personal Life
In her personal life, Bonner has experienced significant milestones, including her marriage to fellow WNBA player Candice Dupree in 2014, which later ended in separation. In 2023, she became engaged to Alyssa Thomas, marking a new chapter in her life. Bonner’s commitment to her family and her career continues to shape her journey as a professional athlete.
