Some supporters of the Indiana Fever expressed their feelings toward DeWanna Bonner on Wednesday. Kahleah Copper, a prominent player for the Phoenix Mercury, responded forcefully following the contest.
The Mercury-Fever matchup marked Bonner’s return to Indiana following a brief nine-game period at the beginning of the season that ultimately turned unpleasant. As the experienced 37-year-old player entered the game from the bench, the Gainbridge Fieldhouse audience greeted her with considerable disapproval.
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Bonner didn’t seem to react to the boos, but her teammate and partner Alyssa Thomas was later seen addressing some individuals in the audience with strong words.
Even without Caitlin Clark, the Fever managed to defeat the Mercury with a score of 107-101. Thomas was the game’s leading scorer with 32 points, along with 15 rebounds and 7 assists (but also 8 turnovers), while Aari McDonald was the Fever’s top scorer with 27 points. Bonner concluded the game with four points on 1-of-4 shooting and one rebound in 21 minutes.
Copper voiced her own disappointment to reporters during her postgame press conference, as reported by the Indy Star:
“I simply don’t comprehend. She’s a legend. Considering all her contributions to the league, the lack of respect is something I can’t accept. They booed her, and she didn’t utter a word to the crowd. Some individuals directed insults at her, but we stood by her.”
“It’s quite disrespectful what their fan base is doing concerning DB. She’s truly a kind person. The circumstances didn’t align for her. It simply wasn’t what she desired, but such negativity is unnecessary.”
One person who seemed less concerned about the booing was Bonner’s coach, Nate Tibbetts, as quoted by the Star:
“I didn’t observe that, but I’d assume so. AT is a fiercely competitive athlete. Just as their players engage with their fans, our players will do the same,” stated Phoenix coach Nate Tibbetts.
“I believed (Bonner) handled it well,” he continued. “That’s how sports operate; when you return to a former team after an involuntary departure, fans typically aren’t pleased. That’s what occurred tonight.”
DeWanna Bonner didn’t receive a warm welcome from the Fever or its fans. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
(Dylan Buell via Getty Images)
Bonner’s initial arrival was anticipated as a significant enhancement to the Fever’s core group led by Clark, appearing to be a quintessential addition of experience to support a youthful squad. Her time began favorably, but she transitioned to a bench role after three games and was subsequently sidelined after nine due to “personal matters.”
She ultimately didn’t participate in another game for the Fever, being released after Indiana couldn’t secure a trade arrangement. When questioned about the situation the previous weekend, she expressed having no regrets.
