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Fever waive Bonner, who says fit 'didn't work'

The article from ESPN, titled "Fever waive veteran Bonner, says fit did not work out," discusses the Indiana Fever's decision to waive veteran forward DeWanna Bonner. The move was announced on a Tuesday, and it marks a significant shift in the team's roster as they continue to navigate the complexities of the WNBA season. The article provides insights into the reasons behind the decision, Bonner's career trajectory, and the potential implications for both the Fever and Bonner moving forward.

DeWanna Bonner, a 15-year WNBA veteran, joined the Indiana Fever in the offseason as a free agent. Her signing was seen as a major coup for the Fever, who were looking to bolster their roster and improve their performance in the league. Bonner, known for her scoring prowess and experience, was expected to be a key contributor to the team. However, after just 12 games with the Fever, the team decided to part ways with her, citing a lack of fit as the primary reason.

The article delves into the specifics of Bonner's tenure with the Fever. In her 12 games with the team, she averaged 11.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. While these numbers are respectable, they fell short of the expectations set for her when she signed with the team. The Fever's general manager, Lin Dunn, explained that despite Bonner's efforts, the team felt that her playing style did not mesh well with the rest of the roster. Dunn emphasized that the decision to waive Bonner was not a reflection of her skills or dedication but rather a strategic move to optimize the team's performance.

Bonner's career has been marked by significant achievements and accolades. She was drafted fifth overall by the Phoenix Mercury in the 2009 WNBA Draft and quickly established herself as one of the league's premier forwards. Over her career, she has earned two WNBA championships, five All-Star selections, and numerous other honors. Her scoring ability, versatility, and leadership have made her a valuable asset to any team she has played for.

The article also explores the broader context of the Fever's season and their roster decisions. The team has been undergoing a rebuilding phase, with a focus on developing young talent and creating a cohesive unit. The decision to waive Bonner is part of this broader strategy, as the Fever aim to find the right combination of players to achieve success. The article notes that the Fever have been experimenting with different lineups and rotations, trying to find the best fit for their current roster.

In addition to discussing the Fever's perspective, the article also considers the implications for Bonner. At 35 years old, Bonner remains a highly skilled and experienced player, and there is likely to be interest from other teams in the league. The article speculates on potential landing spots for Bonner, including teams that could benefit from her scoring and leadership. It also highlights the challenges that veteran players face in the WNBA, where roster spots are limited and competition is fierce.

The article provides a detailed analysis of Bonner's statistical performance with the Fever, comparing it to her career averages and her performance in previous seasons. It notes that while Bonner's scoring was down compared to her career average, her shooting percentages were still solid. The article also examines her role within the Fever's offensive and defensive schemes, suggesting that the team's overall strategy may not have been conducive to maximizing her strengths.

Furthermore, the article touches on the emotional and psychological aspects of being waived. For a player of Bonner's caliber and experience, being let go can be a difficult pill to swallow. The article includes quotes from Bonner expressing her disappointment but also her determination to continue her career. She speaks of her love for the game and her desire to contribute to a team that values her skills and experience.

The article also considers the broader implications for the WNBA as a whole. The league is known for its high level of competition and the constant movement of players between teams. The decision to waive a player of Bonner's stature highlights the challenges that teams face in building a successful roster. It also underscores the importance of fit and chemistry in determining a team's success.

In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the Indiana Fever's decision to waive DeWanna Bonner. It examines the reasons behind the move, Bonner's career and performance, and the potential implications for both the Fever and Bonner. The article also places the decision within the broader context of the WNBA, highlighting the challenges and dynamics that shape the league. As the Fever continue their rebuilding efforts and Bonner seeks a new team, the article offers valuable insights into the complexities of professional basketball.

Read the Full ESPN Article at:
[ https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/45582900/fever-waive-veteran-bonner-says-fit-did-not-work-out ]