DeWanna Bonner Joins Atlanta Dream After Being Released by Phoenix Mercury

DeWanna Bonner's WNBA Finals journey has taken an unexpected turn, one that could potentially make her a game-changer for the Atlanta Dream. Just two months ago, she was playing for the Phoenix Mercury in a 10-point loss to the same Dream team.

The Mercury had already sealed their fate as the first team since 2008 to miss the playoffs after making it to the Finals the previous season. Bonner's own career, which has spanned nearly four decades, seemed to be drawing to a close with her team's dismal performance. However, all of that changed when the Mercury released her just before the deadline for player playoff eligibility from waivers.

Two days later, Bonner signed with the Dream for the remainder of the season, marking a significant turnaround in her fortunes. According to Dan Padover, general manager of the Dream, it was a deal that "turned into a mini-free agency" as several teams vied for Bonner's services.

The Dream has been on a mission to rebuild their roster over the past four years, with general manager Dan Padover orchestrating a series of trades that have brought in top talent. In 2022, he took charge of basketball operations and set about acquiring the core players who now make up the team's starting lineup.

The Atlanta Dream's fortunes may have changed dramatically if DeWanna Bonner had not joined their team.

Coach Karl Smesko praised Bonner for her impact on the court, crediting her with contributing to wins every time she plays. He also noted that she has a knack for saying the right thing at the right moment, making her a valuable addition both as a player and leader.

Bonner's impressive resume is now part of the team, having accumulated 103 playoff games throughout her career. This number dwarfs the experience of rookie Isobel Borlase, who joked that Bonner has played more playoff games than she has regular-season games.

Borlase's comment underscores the immense value of Bonner's experience on the team. "It's experience, and you can't buy it," Borlase said, highlighting the importance of having a veteran player like Bonner in the locker room.

Bonner's presence is not only about her skills but also about her leadership qualities. She serves as a calming influence when needed and knows how to motivate her teammates, making her a valuable asset for the Dream.

As the WNBA Finals unfold, DeWanna Bonner's impact on the Atlanta Dream cannot be overstated. With a combined 120 playoff appearances among the team's roster, Bonner stands out as an experienced player who knows what it takes to win a championship.

Bonner's leadership skills have been instrumental in keeping her teammates humble and grounded throughout the postseason. She emphasizes the importance of every little detail, making sure that everyone is focused on the task at hand. Her teammates acknowledge her influence, valuing her input and advice as they strive for victory.

A key aspect of Bonner's approach to the game is managing her emotions, body, and overall well-being. In a best-of-seven series like the Finals, maintaining an even keel is crucial, especially when facing intense pressure and competition. By prioritizing self-management, Bonner sets an excellent example for her teammates.

Bonner has been playing some of the best basketball of her season in the playoffs, with production to match her intangibles. In a pivotal moment during Game 1 against the Washington Mystics, she took charge of the third quarter and led the Dream to a stunning comeback victory. The team has never looked back since.

Bonner's impressive performance continued into the semifinals, where she scored 23 points in Game 1 after her teammate Gray suffered an injury. She then stepped up as a starter for the remainder of the series, recording her 20th double-double in the playoff career during the crucial Game 3 win that clinched the series against the New York Liberty.

Bonner's numbers in the playoffs have been significantly higher than her regular-season averages. She has been thriving under pressure, and her teammates have played a crucial role in her success.

The Atlanta Dream's players have made it easy for Bonner to adjust to her new leadership role, with many of them accepting her as one of their own despite being introduced so late in the season. In return, she is sharing some of her experience and knowledge with her teammates, creating a harmonious dynamic that has contributed to the team's playoff success.