WNBA to Punish DeWanna Bonner After Phoenix Mercury Game

Soobum Im-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect

WNBA to Punish DeWanna Bonner After Phoenix Mercury Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jun 27, 2026 7:38 PM ET

The Phoenix Mercury survived even with All-Star forward Alyssa Thomas suspended, thanks to Kahleah Copper's incredible scoring and DeWanna Bonner's all-around effort.

Copper led the Mercury in scoring with 27 points on 10-of-15 shooting, along with five rebounds. Bonner, meanwhile, added 13 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and three steals to help Phoenix secure an 89-80 victory.

Valeriane Ayayi recorded 20 points off the bench for the Mercury, while Lexi Held chipped in 16 points.

No one from the Tempo scored more than 15 points, with Nyara Sabally leading the team in offense with 14 points.

Despite the win, however, it wasn't all positive for the Mercury. For one, Bonner is in line for another punishment from the WNBA for her actions.

Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner (14) against the Atlanta Dream at PHX Arena.Mark J&period; Rebilas-Imagn Images

Bonner received a technical foul with 17 seconds left in the third quarter. It was her second technical foul of the season after receiving her first during Monday's game against the Indiana Fever.

As a result, the WNBA is set to fine Bonner $500. The league rules state that the first three technical fouls a player receives each carry a $500 fine, while the fourth through seventh technical fouls will cost $1,000 each.

Once a player reaches eight technical fouls, she will have to pay a $1,500 fine and serve a one-game suspension.

With 24 games left in the Mercury's 2026 regular season, Bonner will certainly need to be more careful if she wants to avoid getting suspended. Phoenix will have a four-day rest before returning to action on Thursday against the Seattle Storm.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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