Amid a remarkable 14-year WNBA career, DeWanna Bonner’s is experiencing a unique season of reflection and celebration, both on and off the court. Having committed this offseason to prioritize family over the usual overseas ventures, Bonner reflects on her legendary career and embraces the joys of motherhood.
This introspective season focuses on her twin daughters, Cali and Demi. “This is the first year that I have been able to spend every single day in the offseason with my girls,” Bonner shared in a recent phone interview with CBS Sports. The decision to stay close to home has strengthened the bond between Bonner and her twin daughters, emphasizing the newfound significance of motherhood in her life.
Throwing it back this Thursday in honor of DB’s @auburnwbb jersey retirement weekend
Follow along as we give you a behind-the-scenes look into the celebrations all weekend long 👀
📸: @AuburnWBB pic.twitter.com/ehqm0UvBPO
— Connecticut Sun (@ConnecticutSun) January 18, 2024
As Bonner prepares for a bittersweet journey to Auburn, her alma mater, she anticipates the honor of having her collegiate jersey retired. Auburn will pay tribute to Bonner on Sunday, making her only the fifth women’s basketball alumna to receive this prestigious recognition. However, the sweetness of the moment is tinged with the knowledge that her daughters won’t be physically present to witness the event.
“I’m going to my college to get my jersey put in the ceiling. It’s going to be, you know, like pretty high up there,” Bonner chuckled, explaining her decision to leave the twins at home for the occasion. Despite the temporary separation, the twins, Cali and Demi, have insisted on one promise: Bonner must capture the moment through photographs.
Reflecting on her impending jersey retirement, Bonner acknowledges the significance of the honor. “I’m really about to get my jersey retired…Excuse my French, but I’m a f—ing legend,” she exclaimed with a mix of wonderment and pride. The realization of her legacy becomes more profound as she joins the ranks of Auburn’s distinguished alumni, including renowned figures like Bo Jackson, Charles Barkley, and singer Lionel Richie.
Bonner’s impact on Auburn’s women’s basketball program is undeniable. Her No. 24 jersey will hang alongside other legends, solidifying her place in the program’s history. With 2,162 career points, Bonner remains Auburn’s all-time leading scorer, showcasing her unparalleled contributions to the team.
Fifteen years ago, Bonner, a homegrown talent, chose Auburn to stay close to her roots and family. Alongside her fellow recruits, Bonner embarked on a mission to revitalize Auburn’s women’s basketball program. The effort paid off, culminating in an SEC regular-season championship and consecutive NCAA Tournament berths during Bonner’s senior year.
Transitioning from her college success, DeWanna Bonner’s entered the WNBA with a determination to excel. Learning from elite players like Penny Taylor, Diana Taurasi, and Cappie Pondexter in Phoenix, Bonner quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with. Her rookie season with the Mercury resulted in a Sixth Player of the Year honor and the first of three WNBA championships.
Last week, we had something special to tell DeWanna Bonner…👀#WarEagle pic.twitter.com/DLwR4uhGUK
— Auburn Women’s Basketball (@AuburnWBB) October 31, 2023
As Bonner approaches her 15th WNBA season, she continues to chase history. With a commitment to improvement, Bonner dedicates the 2024 WNBA campaign to her daughters, aiming for further success with the Connecticut Sun. Her illustrious career, highlighted by championships, All-Star selections, and remarkable statistical achievements, positions Bonner as one of the WNBA’s all-time greats.
On Sunday, as her jersey ascends to Neville Arena’s ceiling, Bonner embraces the moment while contemplating her legacy. “I’m a great. I’m a great athlete. I’m a great basketball player, and I’m a great mother…I am an all-time great,” Bonner asserts, envisioning her place in WNBA history beyond her playing days.
The Auburn Tigers will honor DeWanna Bonner’s in a pre-game ceremony on Sunday before facing Alabama at Neville Arena, marking a pivotal moment in the journey of a basketball legend and devoted mother.
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