In a story shaking the WNBA to its core, veteran star DeWanna Bonner is now under intense scrutiny from fans and insiders after reportedly turning her back on Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever—choosing instead to prioritize her relationship with Connecticut Sun teammate and fiancée, Alyssa Thomas.

Bonner, known for her fierce competitiveness and long-standing contributions to the league, is now facing accusations of allowing personal relationships to influence her professional conduct—particularly in how she has treated rising rookie Caitlin Clark. What started as on-court tension has spiraled into a public relations firestorm.

The controversy stems from a recent Fever vs. Sun matchup, in which Bonner delivered what many saw as intentional, aggressive play against Clark. Postgame footage showed Bonner walking past Clark during the handshake line without acknowledgment, followed by a smirk exchanged with Alyssa Thomas. Fans were quick to point out that Thomas has also been involved in multiple controversial plays against Clark this season.

“It’s personal now,” one WNBA analyst commented. “And that’s a problem. When personal relationships start to dictate how you treat fellow athletes, especially rookies, it sends a bad message.”

Social media exploded with outrage. Thousands of fans accused Bonner of “abandoning professionalism” in favor of “blind loyalty” to her partner. One tweet that went viral read: “DeWanna Bonner choosing her girlfriend over the growth of the league. Unbelievable.”

Others pointed out that Bonner had previously shown support for young talent in the league—but has been strangely cold and distant toward Clark, even as the rookie brings record-breaking viewership and fan engagement.

“She didn’t just ignore Caitlin—she disrespected the entire Fever organization,” another post read.

The Indiana Fever front office has not officially commented on Bonner’s actions, but insiders say they are “deeply disappointed” by how some veterans are reacting to Clark’s presence in the league.

A source within the Fever organization stated: “We expected leadership from veterans. Instead, we’re seeing high school-level drama.”

Bonner, for her part, has remained silent, declining to speak with the media following the most recent game. Her social media has also gone dark, prompting even more speculation about whether she’s feeling the heat from growing backlash.

Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark continues to keep her head down and focus on basketball. Despite repeated physical play, cold shoulders, and questionable treatment from older players, she has remained composed.

In a recent interview, Clark said: “I’m here to grow the game. I’m not caught up in anything else.”

Fans and former players have come to Clark’s defense, with WNBA legend Lisa Leslie saying: “When veterans push away young stars instead of guiding them, it hurts the league.”

Marketing experts also warn that Bonner’s behavior could hurt her future endorsements, especially as Clark becomes a household name in women’s sports.

“It’s a bad look,” said one PR consultant. “Caitlin Clark is the face of a movement. Attacking or ignoring her? That’s not what brands want to be associated with.”

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Bonner—not just for her play on the court, but how she chooses to handle the growing rift between her, Clark, and the rest of the league.

In a league built on empowerment, unity, and progress, Bonner’s actions are now raising questions about professionalism, integrity, and whether personal loyalty has crossed a line into public backlash.

Only time will tell if Bonner can recover from the fallout—or if this chapter becomes a permanent stain on an otherwise remarkable career.