The Phoenix Mercury and six-time All-Star De Wanna Bonner have reached an agreement to buy out her contract, the team announced Monday. The move sends Bonner to the waiver wire, and she would become an unrestricted free agent if she is not picked up. In her 17th season, Bonner would then be clear to sign with any team.

Both Bonner and general manager Nick U'Ren indicated she is looking for a chance to participate in the playoffs with her career winding down. "De Wanna has been an important part of our team and brought tremendous leadership, experience and competitiveness to the Mercury," U'Ren said in a statement. "Because of the relationship we have with De Wanna, we worked out a buyout agreement that gives her the opportunity to chase a title in what could be her final postseason."

According to Bonner's agent, Mike Cound, there were no issues with Phoenix that drove her to seek the buyout. "They were great," Cound told ESPN. "Many teams in the league wouldn't consider this, but this is a special circumstance and Phoenix is a very player-friendly organization. She's really appreciative of them."

Bonner, 39, played her first 10 seasons in Phoenix, where she won two championships. The 2026 season has been a disappointment in Phoenix. The Mercury have a 13-24 record, which eliminates them from the playoffs.