​Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner added another milestone to her storied career on Tuesday, July 7, even as her team fell short on the scoreboard. After the game, Bonner reflected on her journey, the profound impact basketball has had on her life, and how her teammates view her enduring legacy. The Mercury were edged 77-66 by the Chicago Sky, but Bonner still reached 8,000 career points in the WNBA, becoming the third player in league history to reach that mark. She joined former teammate Diana Taurasi, who has 10,646 points, and Tina Charles, who recently announced her retirement with 8,396 points.
Following the game, Suns and Phoenix Mercury writer Shane Young sat down with Bonner for an exclusive interview about her path to 8,000 points and what the milestone means to her. “I really didn’t [think about it]; it’s just surreal that basketball has taken me this far,” she said. “I’m just blessed and grateful that I can continue to play this far down the line.”
Bonner was selected fifth overall by the Mercury in the 2009 WNBA Draft out of Auburn. She led the SEC in scoring with 21.1 points per game in 2009, a feat that has translated into a remarkable 17-year career at the highest level. Since entering the league, the Phoenix forward has won two WNBA championships, been named an All-Star six times, and earned three Sixth Woman of the Year awards. Yet her teammates view her influence as even more significant than those accolades.
During a pivotal period of her career, Bonner welcomed twin daughters who serve as constant inspiration. Phoenix rookie Shay Ciezki lauded Bonner’s impact on the team, describing her as “amazing.” Ciezki added, “She’s like the mother of the group. She’s incredibly supportive and always there for us. She teaches during practices and games. It’s wonderful to witness the longevity of her career and what she’s able to accomplish. I’m excited to see—the game ahead holds many milestones for her. It’s just cool to be around her every day.”
Now in her 17th season, Bonner averages about 9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. Standing 6-foot-4, she sits 10th on the WNBA’s all-time list for three-pointers, with 687 made. While Jewell Loyd remains in ninth place and active in the league, Bonner’s continued production suggests she could close the gap in the near future.
The Mercury currently sit at 8-14 on the season and hold the 12th position in the league standings after the loss to Chicago. Still, Bonner’s level of play remains high in what is essentially a veteran’s twilight year, underscoring the enduring value of her leadership and production.
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