The two-time WNBA champion veteran seeks a third title with the Dream, who are battling injuries and aim to bolster their bench for a deep postseason run.
WNBA veteran DeWanna Bonner is reportedly set to join the Atlanta Dream for the remainder of the 2026 season and the upcoming playoffs, a significant move for the 17-year star. This signing comes as Bonner, a two-time champion, pursues another title in what many speculate could be her final year in the league.
Bonner began the current season with the Phoenix Mercury, the franchise where she has spent the majority of her distinguished career. However, following the Mercury's official elimination from playoff contention on August 22, after a 99-89 defeat by the very same Dream squad, the six-time All-Star reached a buyout agreement with the Phoenix organization two days later.
The Atlanta Dream, boasting a 25-13 overall record, currently sit fourth in the league standings and have already secured a postseason berth. With emerging star forward Angel Reese enjoying the finest stretch of her career, the addition of Bonner aims to further solidify Atlanta's championship aspirations, according to reporting by CBS Sports - Headlines.
Chasing a Championship Dream with the Dream
DeWanna Bonner's arrival injects invaluable veteran experience into the Dream's roster, particularly crucial as the intensity of the postseason approaches. A two-time WNBA champion, Bonner has an impressive record, having missed the playoffs only once in her storied career, highlighting her consistent presence in championship contention.
Despite nearing the conclusion of her career, the 6-foot-4 wing remains a formidable presence on both ends of the court. This season, she has continued to contribute significantly to the stat sheet, averaging 10.6 points and 6.1 rebounds per contest. Her ability to perform under pressure will be vital for an Atlanta team that has reached the WNBA Finals three times (2010, 2011, and 2013) but is still chasing its inaugural championship title.
Boosting Atlanta's Roster Depth and Bench Scoring
Bonner's addition also addresses a critical need for enhanced roster depth and bench scoring for the Atlanta Dream. The team's reserves are currently averaging just 17.2 points per game, marking the second-lowest bench scoring average across the league this season.
The Dream are particularly short-handed without four-time All-Star Brionna Jones, who has been sidelined since August 13 after sustaining a left leg injury during a game against the Connecticut Sun. Jones has appeared in only five games for the Dream in 2026, having missed the initial months of the season recovering from offseason surgery on her right meniscus. Her availability for the remainder of the season remains uncertain, making Bonner's immediate impact on depth even more significant.
Notably, Bonner has a proven track record of excelling as a reserve, having earned the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year award for three consecutive seasons from 2009 to 2011. This experience positions her perfectly to bolster Atlanta's secondary unit.
A Storied Career Continues with a New Chapter
Phoenix Mercury General Manager Nick U'ren commented on Bonner's departure, stating that "because of her relationship with the franchise, they wanted to give her the opportunity to end her career on a high note, even if it meant letting her go somewhere else." Bonner officially became a free agent after clearing waivers on Wednesday evening, a move reported by ESPN.
Bonner's career accolades place her among the league's all-time greats. She ranks third all-time in career points and fifth in career rebounds. Furthermore, she stands second all-time in WNBA regular-season games played, just eight contests shy of matching Hall of Famer Sue Bird's record. With the Dream having six regular season games left, Bonner will not surpass that particular record this season. However, she already holds the distinction for the most playoff games played by any WNBA athlete, with 98 appearances and counting.
ESPN reports Bonner's anticipated salary with Atlanta to be a prorated max contract, valued at approximately $116,000. Atlanta's next game is scheduled for Friday, August 28, at 7:30 p.m. ET in Atlanta, where they will face the Portland Fire. Bonner will have extra time to integrate into Atlanta's system, as the WNBA season will then pause for the FIBA Women's World Cup, running from August 31 to September 16.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is DeWanna Bonner signing with?
DeWanna Bonner is reportedly signing with the Atlanta Dream for the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season and playoffs, following a buyout from the Phoenix Mercury.
Why did DeWanna Bonner leave the Phoenix Mercury?
Bonner left the Phoenix Mercury after the team was eliminated from playoff contention. General Manager Nick U'ren stated the buyout was to allow her the opportunity to end her career on a high note by pursuing a championship elsewhere.
What impact will DeWanna Bonner have on the Atlanta Dream?
Bonner is expected to bring invaluable veteran experience, a championship mindset, and much-needed depth to the Atlanta Dream, particularly bolstering their bench scoring and providing two-way play during their playoff run.
What are DeWanna Bonner's career achievements?
DeWanna Bonner is a two-time WNBA champion, a six-time All-Star, and a three-time Sixth Woman of the Year. She ranks third all-time in career points, fifth in career rebounds, and holds the record for most playoff games played by a WNBA athlete.