Connecticut Sun Make Major Roster Shakeup by Signing Aari McDonald and Waiving Six-Time All-Star DeWanna Bonner for Remainder of Season

The Connecticut Sun made a stunning and bold roster move this week, announcing they have signed guard Aari McDonald for the remainder of the WNBA season while simultaneously waiving veteran forward and six-time All-Star DeWanna Bonner. The unexpected transaction signals a shift in team strategy as the Sun look to inject youth, speed, and defensive tenacity into their rotation for the playoff push.

Aari McDonald, the former Arizona Wildcats star and NCAA Tournament standout, arrives in Connecticut with a reputation as one of the most explosive guards in women’s basketball. Known for her lightning-quick first step, disruptive defense, and fearless scoring mentality, McDonald will now have an opportunity to revitalize her WNBA career in a system built on toughness and defensive discipline.

McDonald was initially drafted third overall by the Atlanta Dream in the 2021 WNBA Draft following her legendary collegiate career, which included leading Arizona to the national championship game and earning All-American honors. Though she showed flashes of brilliance with Atlanta, her playing time and role fluctuated amid coaching changes and roster reshuffles. With this move, the Sun are betting that McDonald’s skill set can elevate their backcourt depth and defensive identity down the stretch.

“We are excited to welcome Aari to Connecticut,” Sun General Manager Darius Taylor said in the team’s official announcement. “She brings incredible energy on both ends of the floor, elite defensive instincts, and an aggressive scoring mentality that fits perfectly with how we want to play. As we gear up for the second half of the season, we believe her presence will strengthen our guard rotation and give us a dynamic weapon in key moments.”

The arrival of McDonald comes at the expense of one of the most decorated veterans in league history, DeWanna Bonner. The 36-year-old Bonner has been a cornerstone for the Sun since arriving in Connecticut in 2020, providing consistent scoring, versatility, and leadership. Her resume speaks for itself—two WNBA championships, six All-Star selections, and four All-WNBA Team honors.

Bonner, who is also the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, played an instrumental role in Connecticut’s run to the 2022 WNBA Finals and their perennial status as championship contenders. However, with the season reaching its midpoint, it appears the organization has opted for a younger, more athletic roster composition to keep pace with the league’s evolving style of play.

“DeWanna has been an incredible part of our franchise and community,” Taylor added. “Her contributions on the court and her leadership in the locker room have meant so much to this organization. These decisions are never easy, but we are focused on building a roster that gives us the best chance to compete at the highest level this season and beyond.”

The decision to part ways with Bonner comes amid speculation regarding her future with the team. At 36, she remains a productive player, averaging double figures in scoring and providing valuable size and versatility on the wing. Yet, with Connecticut prioritizing pace, perimeter defense, and youthful energy, the roster move reflects an organizational pivot toward developing a new identity.

McDonald’s arrival should immediately bolster the Sun’s defensive prowess. Throughout her collegiate and professional career, she has been known as a relentless on-ball defender capable of pressuring opposing guards for the full 94 feet. Her quick hands, anticipation, and disruptive playstyle earned her Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year honors twice in college, and those same attributes could prove invaluable in the WNBA.

Offensively, McDonald offers a downhill scoring threat, capable of breaking down defenders off the dribble and finishing at the rim. Though undersized at 5-foot-6, her explosiveness and fearlessness attacking the paint make her a constant problem for opposing defenses. With Connecticut often leaning on their physicality and interior presence, McDonald’s speed provides a contrasting offensive dimension that could stretch defenses and create more open looks for her teammates.

The Sun have been in pursuit of consistency at the guard position throughout the season. With their backcourt rotation dealing with injuries and inconsistent production, McDonald provides both experience and untapped potential. Her ability to push the pace in transition, pressure opposing ball-handlers, and ignite fast-break opportunities aligns with head coach Stephanie White’s desire to make the Sun a more dynamic, high-energy team.

For McDonald, this opportunity represents a chance to reignite her WNBA career after an up-and-down stint with the Dream. Despite averaging nearly 11 points per game during her sophomore season, her minutes and role declined, prompting questions about her long-term fit in Atlanta. Now, with Connecticut seeking backcourt stability and defensive intensity, McDonald steps into a situation that could maximize her strengths.

Sun players and coaches have already expressed excitement about what McDonald can bring to the team. Veteran guard Natisha Hiedeman praised McDonald’s defensive energy and competitiveness, noting that her arrival raises the overall intensity of practices and games. Meanwhile, forward Alyssa Thomas emphasized how McDonald’s quickness and ability to pressure the ball align with the team’s defensive identity.

The WNBA landscape continues to evolve, with speed, guard play, and perimeter defense becoming increasingly important for teams hoping to contend. By adding McDonald and parting ways with Bonner, the Sun appear committed to reshaping their roster to meet those demands, even if it means moving on from one of the most accomplished players in franchise history.

Bonner’s departure marks the end of an era for Connecticut, but it also opens the door for new voices and playmakers to emerge. Her leadership and championship pedigree leave a lasting legacy, and it is likely that several teams across the league will inquire about her services should she choose to continue her playing career.

As for McDonald, the remainder of this season represents both a fresh start and a critical proving ground. Her skill set fills a clear need for the Sun, and if she can deliver on her potential, she could play a pivotal role in Connecticut’s playoff aspirations.

The Sun currently sit among the top teams in the league standings but have faced challenges with offensive efficiency and consistency against elite opponents. McDonald’s arrival, coupled with the team’s strong defensive foundation, could provide the jolt necessary to elevate their championship hopes.

Time will tell how the roster shakeup plays out, but one thing is clear—the Connecticut Sun are not standing pat. They are embracing bold decisions, betting on speed, defense, and youth to carry them through the season’s most crucial stretch.

For Aari McDonald, the opportunity to contribute to a championship-caliber team awaits. For DeWanna Bonner, a new chapter in her illustrious career begins. And for the Connecticut Sun, a defining moment of the season is underway.