Free agent DeWanna Bonner is signing with the Atlanta Dream following her contract buyout with the Phoenix Mercury, sources informed ESPN on Wednesday.
The transfer provides a two-time WNBA champion and six-time All-Star to a Dream squad that’s quick on depth and is in search of a franchise-first championship.
The phrases of the take care of Atlanta, which is fourth within the standings at 25-13, are unknown.
Bonner averaged 10.6 factors, 6.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.2 steals this season and began 26 of 37 video games for the Mercury, the place she was drafted in 2009 and spent the vast majority of her 17-season profession. She additionally spent 5 seasons in Connecticut and performed 9 video games in Indiana final season earlier than parting methods with the staff and returning to Phoenix.
Bonner, the second-oldest participant within the league at 39, sought a buyout from the Mercury and was granted one with Phoenix eradicated from playoff competition. She cleared waivers Wednesday night earlier than turning into a free agent.
Phoenix GM Nick U’Ren stated in an announcement Monday, “Due to the connection now we have with DeWanna, we labored out a buyout settlement that provides her the chance to chase a title in what may very well be her last postseason.”
“At this stage of my profession, I do not know what the longer term holds, however I am grateful to the Mercury for giving me the chance to play in what may very well be one in all my last postseason alternatives,” Bonner stated in an announcement. “The followers, this group and the Mercury group have embraced me all through my profession, and I will at all times be thankful for that.”
Bonner ranks third in league historical past in profession factors and fifth in profession rebounds.
The 6-foot-4 ahead/guard is predicted to return off the bench for Atlanta, which was upset within the first spherical of the playoffs final yr by Indiana. Bonner sports activities three Sixth Lady of the Yr awards from earlier in her profession.