In a twist that no one saw coming, WNBA veteran DeWanna Bonner has publicly thrown her support behind rookie sensation Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever — and it has left Hall of Famer Sheryl Swoopes completely stunned.

The moment unfolded during a post-practice media session when Bonner was asked about the rising buzz around Clark and her team’s early preseason momentum.

“I love what she’s doing,” Bonner said without hesitation. “She’s fearless. She doesn’t care about the noise. That’s the kind of energy this league needs.”

Her words sent shockwaves across the WNBA landscape.

Bonner, a seasoned five-time All-Star and defensive force, is known for her fierce competitiveness — especially when it comes to younger players earning their stripes.

But this time, instead of criticism, she offered praise — and even encouragement.

“She’s changing the conversation,” Bonner added. “People are watching us now because of her. And I’m not mad at that.”

Fans quickly took to social media, with many expressing surprise over Bonner’s support for a player who has already become a polarizing figure in just a few months.

But the biggest reaction came from none other than Sheryl Swoopes.

The WNBA legend, known for speaking her mind, responded live during an interview on WNBA Today.

“Wait… Bonner said that?” Swoopes asked, visibly surprised. “I’m gonna need a minute.”

While Swoopes didn’t openly criticize Bonner’s stance, she made it clear she wasn’t expecting that level of endorsement for a rookie who’s still finding her footing.

“There’s a difference between potential and proven,” Swoopes said. “Let’s not crown anyone just yet.”

Swoopes has been vocal in recent weeks about her concern over the media’s obsession with Clark, warning that too much hype could create unrealistic expectations.

But Bonner’s words seemed to come from a different place — a place of evolution and understanding.

“We need fresh eyes. Fresh voices. Caitlin brings that,” Bonner said.

She also gave a nod to Indiana Fever’s improved chemistry, hinting that the team might be on the verge of something special.

“They’re not just playing hard — they’re believing,” she said. “That’s dangerous.”

Meanwhile, Clark remained humble when asked about Bonner’s comments.

“It means a lot, coming from a legend like her,” Clark said. “I just want to earn my respect every time I step on the floor.”

Indiana Fever coach Christie Sides echoed the sentiment.

“DeWanna’s one of the toughest players in this league. For her to recognize what Caitlin’s doing? That’s huge.”

As the WNBA prepares for a fiery regular season, rivalries are forming, opinions are clashing, and the new generation is pushing against the old guard.

But one thing is clear: if Caitlin Clark can win over veterans like DeWanna Bonner, she may be changing more than just the scoreboard — she may be rewriting the narrative of the league itself.

And Swoopes? She’s still watching — closely.

This season just got a lot more personal.