Tension on the Court: DeWanna Bonner’s Silent Feud with Caitlin Clark Raises Eyebrows

As the 2025 WNBA season heats up, all eyes are not just on the rising star Caitlin Clark—but also on the quiet storm brewing between her and veteran forward DeWanna Bonner. Though no words have been openly exchanged, Bonner’s body language, sideline expressions, and on-court interactions have sparked speculation of a deeper tension — one rooted in resentment and professional frustration.

Bonner, a six-time WNBA All-Star and two-time champion, was expected to be a steadying presence for the Indiana Fever this season. With a decorated resume and years of experience, her arrival was seen as an opportunity to mentor the younger players, including Clark, the league’s most talked-about rookie.

However, things haven’t gone as expected. From the season opener, fans and analysts noticed what some described as “a cold distance” between Bonner and Clark. During team huddles, Bonner often appeared disengaged. On the court, moments that should have called for collaboration seemed strained. And when Clark shined, Bonner’s expressions—captured in slow-motion replays and viral social media clips—told a story of unspoken discomfort.

Multiple sources close to the team, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested Bonner felt sidelined by the intense media focus on Clark. One insider noted, “DeWanna has worked her whole career for recognition. Then Caitlin comes in, and suddenly every camera, every question, every headline is about her.”

This sentiment, while unconfirmed by Bonner herself, seems to echo across fan forums and post-game breakdowns. A viral tweet showing Bonner glaring at Clark after a missed defensive assignment received over a million views, with the caption: “That’s not just frustration. That’s years of feeling overlooked.”

The rivalry between Bonner and Clark traces back to the 2024 WNBA playoffs, when Clark—then a rookie—hit a deep three-pointer over Bonner during a heated game between the Fever and the Connecticut Sun. The tension from that night, many believe, never fully faded.

Adding fuel to the fire, Bonner’s role on the team has declined. Once a central scorer and playmaker, her minutes and touches have dropped. As Clark continues to set records and capture national headlines, it’s become clear that the franchise is building around her — a fact that some say has left Bonner feeling displaced.

In a recent post-game interview, when asked about her chemistry with Clark, Bonner offered a clipped response: “She’s doing her thing. I’m doing mine.” No praise. No warmth. Just distance.

While some argue that competitiveness is part of professional sports, others believe that Bonner’s behavior signals deeper dissatisfaction—perhaps even envy. After all, in a league where veterans often pave the way for younger stars, Bonner’s coldness stands out.

Neither Clark nor the Fever organization has commented directly on the rumored tension. For now, the focus remains on the court, where the Fever continue to fight for a playoff spot. But for those watching closely, the dynamic between DeWanna Bonner and Caitlin Clark may be one of the most compelling—and uncomfortable—subplots of the WNBA season.