Controversial Farewell for Dewanna Bonner
Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham has weighed in on the recent departure of her former teammate, Dewanna Bonner, who left the team amid some tension this season. Bonner played only nine games this season, citing “personal reasons” just as the team was preparing to trade her. Eventually, she was released by Indiana on June 29 and has since returned to the Phoenix Mercury, the team she started her career with back in 2009.
Cunningham, who previously played alongside Bonner at Mercury, voiced her thoughts on the matter, suggesting that Bonner’s exit lacked a certain level of “professionalism.” “I’m still rooting for her,” Cunningham remarked. “I think, well, it’s important to maintain some professionalism. Even a simple text to your teammates can say a lot, like, ‘I’m sorry, but this didn’t work out, good luck…'”
When Bonner returned to Indianapolis, she faced boos from the crowd. Cunningham mentioned that given the circumstances surrounding Bonner’s departure, she should have anticipated that reaction from passionate fans.
On the other hand, Cunningham noted that Bonner’s decision to return to Indiana surprised many, including herself. “She’s a Hall of Famer. She can score from anywhere on the court, so it’s a bit puzzling,” she said. “It’s always a good feeling when someone like that comes back, but there’s a lot of mixed emotions for fans.”
Meanwhile, Mercury star Curly Copper expressed discontent over the boos directed at Bonner, emphasizing her legacy within the league. “It’s just rude. I can’t wrap my head around it,” Copper said, adding that Bonner didn’t provoke any negativity towards the crowd. “It’s an uncomfortable situation for her,” she added. “She’s really a sweet soul, and it seems like things just didn’t work out as planned.”
