In a heartbreaking turn for the Phoenix Mercury, veteran stars DeWanna Bonner and Alyssa Thomas will sit out Wednesday’s highly anticipated rematch against the Indiana Fever following a family emergency involving their twin daughters. The news casts a shadow over what promised to be another intense showdown between two WNBA rivals fresh off a fiery Monday night clash.
The couple, whose relationship has been a beacon of love and partnership in women’s basketball, issued a joint statement late Tuesday evening. “Our family is navigating an unexpected health concern with our girls,” it read. “Nothing matters more than being there for them right now. We appreciate the Mercury organization, our teammates, and the fans for their understanding and support during this difficult time.” Team officials confirmed both players are with their daughters and will not travel for the game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Bonner, a 17-year WNBA veteran and cornerstone for the Mercury, and Thomas, the dynamic forward who recently joined Phoenix, have openly shared glimpses of their family life. Their twin daughters, born during a period of transition in their careers, have been a source of joy amid the demands of professional basketball. Sources close to the family describe the emergency as non-life-threatening but serious enough to require immediate parental attention, though specifics remain private out of respect for the children’s privacy.
The absence comes at a pivotal moment. Monday’s game in Indianapolis saw the Fever edge the Mercury 86-77 in a contest marked by tension, technical fouls, and physical play involving Bonner, Thomas, Caitlin Clark, and others. That matchup highlighted the growing rivalry, with Bonner’s past ties to Indiana adding extra spice. Without two of their veteran leaders, Phoenix will lean heavily on Kahleah Copper and younger contributors to keep pace in a tight playoff race.
Head coach Nikki Blue expressed support for her players while acknowledging the challenge. “DeWanna and Alyssa are not just incredible athletes; they’re dedicated mothers and teammates. We’ll rally around them and handle business on the court while they handle what matters most at home,” she said.
Fans and the broader WNBA community have flooded social media with well-wishes. Messages of strength and prayers for the twins poured in from players across the league, underscoring the human side of a sport often defined by its physicality and competition.
This isn’t the first time family priorities have intersected with WNBA schedules, but the timing—right before a critical rematch—tests the Mercury’s depth. Indiana, riding momentum from the Monday win, will look to capitalize, while Phoenix aims to show resilience.
As Bonner and Thomas prioritize healing for their daughters, the basketball world is reminded that behind the highlights and rivalries are families navigating life’s unpredictability. Updates on the players’ return are expected later this week, but for now, thoughts remain with the Bonner-Thomas household.
The Mercury-Fever game tips off at 7 p.m. ET. Both sides will play with heavy hearts and extra motivation, knowing family always comes first.