Phoenix Mercury star forward DeWanna Bonner has agreed to a buyout with the franchise according to team reporter Shane Young, setting her up to possibly join a WNBA contender as a free agent.
Phoenix has been eliminated from the 2026 WNBA playoffs, so Bonner, 39, will now get a chance at the postseason. She's averaged 10.6 points and 6.1 rebounds this season with the Mercury.
Bonner joined Phoenix later into the season last year after a brief stint with the Indiana Fever, as she spent the majority of her future Hall of Fame career with the Mercury. It's possible she retires after the season, which may be why she wants to play with a contender before she calls it good for her career.
Any number of contenders would likely love the chance to add Bonner,
who provides a dangerous 3-point ability, solid defense and leadership at this stage in her career. Where could she land? Let's survey the three big options.
Las Vegas Aces
With forward NaLyssa Smith going down with an injury during Sunday's Aces win, the team may need a replacement in the starting lineup. Bonner could fill in for Smith until the latter is healthy or for the rest of the season if Smith cannot return to the court. Las Vegas might be the most likely landing spot, given the Smith news.
Golden State Valkyries
The Valkyries are probably the most natural fit for Bonner given the team's love for 3-and-D players. The Valkyries would need to waive a player to add Bonner, but she would fit right in with Natalie Nakase's system. Golden State would be even more ferocious at what the team is best at with Bonner in the rotation.
New York Liberty
With superstar forward Satou Sabally's health in question for the rest of the season, adding Bonner could absolutely help the Liberty with depth in the frontcourt. New York has what it takes to make a championship run with Leonie Fiebich healthy. Bonner could be the boost the Liberty needs to separate in the WNBA playoff standings.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: DeWanna Bonner landing spots: 3 WNBA playoff teams stand out
