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Sophie Cunningham, a star player for the Indiana Fever, recently spoke out about the departure of her former teammate, DeWanna Bonner, in a controversial breakup this season.
Bonner left the team after just nine games, citing “personal reasons” while the team attempted to trade her. Indiana eventually released Bonner on June 29, and she returned to the Phoenix Mercury, where she began her career back in 2009.
Indiana Fever forward DeWanna Bonner (25) warms up during a game between the Indiana Fever and the Atlanta Dream at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on May 20, 2025.(IMAGN)
Cunningham, who previously played alongside Bonner for the Mercury in 2009, commended Bonner’s skills as a player but also suggested that Bonner lacked professionalism in the way she left the team.
“I’m still rooting for her. I want her to be happy and successful in her career, but I also believe that it’s important to handle situations professionally. A simple text message to your teammates expressing gratitude and well wishes can go a long way,” Cunningham stated on a recent episode of her podcast.
Upon returning to Indianapolis, Bonner was met with boos from the fans. Cunningham mentioned that Bonner should have anticipated this reaction from Fever fans based on the circumstances surrounding her departure.
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) in action during a game against the Dallas Wings at the American Airlines Center on June 27, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.(Jerome Miron/Imagn Images)
“I was somewhat surprised when she signed with Indiana in the first place, but we would welcome her back with open arms. She’s a Hall of Famer and an exceptional basketball player with scoring abilities from anywhere on the court,” Cunningham added.
“She arrived in Indiana and just didn’t seem content, and I believe that everyone deserves to be happy. That’s why I’m staying neutral in this situation, which has surprised many. As she nears the end of her career, she deserves recognition and happiness. However, if you’re going to leave, you should be prepared for some backlash.”
Kahleah Copper, a standout player for the Mercury, expressed her dismay at the boos directed towards Bonner. Despite Bonner handling the situation with grace, Copper couldn’t understand why the fans reacted in such a negative manner.
DeWanna Bonner, Sophie Cunningham, and Lexie Hull of the Indiana Fever share a moment during a game against the Brazil Women’s National Basketball Team in Iowa City on May 4, 2025.(Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)
“I just don’t understand it. She’s a legend in the sport and has made significant contributions to the league. The disrespect she received is unwarranted. She was booed despite not engaging with the crowd. Some people said negative things to her, but we stood by her,” Copper remarked.
“The treatment of DB by the fan base is distasteful. She is a kind-hearted person, and the situation simply didn’t work out for her. There’s no need for the negativity; it’s uncalled for.”
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