DeWanna Bonner and the Phoenix Mercury reached a contract buyout agreement on Aug. 24.
In a team statement, general manager Nick U'Ren said the agreement gives Bonner a chance to join a playoff contender. The Mercury (13-24) were eliminated from postseason contention on Aug. 22.
“DeWanna has been an important part of our team and brought tremendous leadership, experience and competitiveness to the Mercury,” U’Ren said in a statement.
“Because of the relationship we have with DeWanna, we worked out a buyout agreement that gives her the opportunity to chase a title in what could be her final postseason. DeWanna will always be part of the Mercury family, and we wish her all the best.”
Bonner appeared in 37 games for the Mercury and started in 26 games.
She became an integral part of the front court and averaged 10.6 points and 6.1 rebounds.
The 39-year-old became the third player in WNBA history to reach 8,000 career points, moved into second on the league’s all-time games played list and became the winningest player in WNBA history, amassing 379 career regular-season and postseason wins.
“Being able to return to Phoenix and play in front of the best fans in the WNBA these past two seasons has been an incredible experience,” Bonner said in a statement. “At this stage of my career, I don’t know what the future holds, but I’m grateful to the Mercury for giving me the opportunity to play in what could be one of my final postseason opportunities.
"The fans, this community and the Mercury organization have embraced me throughout my career, and I’ll always be grateful for that. Being part of this franchise has given me so many incredible memories, and Phoenix will always be a special part of my career.”
Reach the reporter or send tips for stories at jenna.ortiz@arizonarepublic.com, as well as @jennarortiz on X.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Mercury, DeWanna Bonner reach contract buyout. What we know
