Copper Defends Bonner Amid Distasteful Booing in Indy

In an emotional return to Indianapolis, DeWanna Bonner faced a hostile reception from the fans, which left her Phoenix Mercury teammates taken aback. The veteran forward, who departed the Fever last month after a brief stint, was met with a chorus of boos during her reappearance in a 107-101 defeat to the Indiana Fever. Bonner struggled to find her rhythm, finishing the night with a mere four points., according to CBS Sports

Kahleah Copper, the Mercury guard and a key player on the team, expressed her disappointment regarding the treatment Bonner received from the Fever’s fanbase. Copper described the crowd’s behavior as “distasteful,” emphasizing the respect Bonner deserves as a seasoned player with a storied career. “I think she handled it well. I just, I don’t understand. She’s a legend, and all the things she’s done for the league, and just the disrespect, I can’t get down with it,” Copper remarked postgame. She highlighted Bonner’s character, noting her kindness and the unfortunate circumstances that led to her departure from Indiana.

Copper further elaborated on the fans’ reactions, stating that Bonner did not engage with the crowd despite their taunts. “People talked some trash to her, but we had her back. It’s just very distasteful for what their fanbase is doing as far as when it comes to DB, because she’s just the sweetest soul,” she continued. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among players about how athletes are treated by fans, especially those who have contributed significantly to the league’s growth.

On the other side of the court, Fever coach Christie Sides appeared unfazed by the crowd’s reaction, suggesting that the intensity of the atmosphere was simply part of the game. “It’s a competitive league, and everyone brings their best every night, especially when former players come back to town,” Sides stated, implying that the boos were part of the home-court advantage.

The game itself showcased a thrilling back-and-forth battle, with the Fever extending their winning streak to three games and climbing above the .500 mark for the first time since 2015. This resurgence is particularly notable considering the team has been navigating the season without their star player, Caitlin Clark, who remains sidelined due to injury. The Fever’s ability to rally together in Clark’s absence underscores their resilience and growing team chemistry.

As the Mercury continue to adjust to their new dynamics following Bonner’s move, this game serves as a reminder of the complexities athletes face when transitioning between teams. The emotional weight of such changes can be profound, impacting not just the players but also their relationships with fanbases.

The incident in Indianapolis raises questions about fan behavior and the treatment of players, especially those who have given so much to their former teams. As the WNBA continues to grow, it is crucial for fans to recognize the humanity behind the players they cheer for and boo.