In a deeply personal and concerning development, Phoenix Mercury stars Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner have decided to leave their Arizona home following a series of continuous threats targeting their children. The couple, who have been open about their engagement since 2023, made the difficult choice to prioritize family safety after weeks of escalating harassment, according to sources close to the situation.
The threats reportedly began intensifying in recent months, involving disturbing messages and online campaigns that specifically mentioned the couple’s young children. Law enforcement in Phoenix has been involved, but the persistent nature of the intimidation prompted Thomas and Bonner to seek a safer environment away from Arizona. “Protecting our kids comes first—above basketball, above everything,” a source familiar with the family’s decision shared. The couple has not publicly detailed the exact nature of the threats, citing ongoing investigations, but insiders describe them as credible and deeply unsettling.
Both athletes have built remarkable careers in the WNBA. Thomas, known for her fierce competitiveness and recent high-profile moments on the court, and Bonner, a veteran leader with a storied career, have long balanced professional excellence with family life. Their decision to relocate underscores the growing challenges faced by public figures, especially in an era of heightened social media scrutiny and targeted harassment. The Mercury organization expressed support in a brief statement: “We stand firmly behind Alyssa, DeWanna, and their family during this challenging time. Their well-being is our priority.”
Neighbors in their Phoenix community expressed shock and sadness at the news. “They were wonderful to have around—always kind and involved,” one resident said. The family’s departure marks a significant shift, as the couple had embraced Arizona as their home base since joining forces on the Mercury roster. Supporters across the league, including teammates and rivals, have flooded social media with messages of solidarity, using hashtags like #ProtectTheBonnerThomasFamily.
As they transition to a new location—details of which remain private for security reasons—Thomas and Bonner are expected to miss some upcoming commitments while focusing on healing and stability for their children. Legal experts note that such cases often involve coordination between local police, federal authorities, and cybersecurity teams to trace online threats. The WNBA has protocols for player safety, and league officials are reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
This move highlights broader conversations about athlete safety, mental health, and the dark side of fame. Fans hope the couple finds peace soon and can return to the game they love when the time is right. The family has requested privacy as they navigate this difficult chapter.