Connecticut Sun’s DeWanna Bonner Reacted to ESPN’s Pat McAfee’s Admission That He Was Aware of Her Identity
McAfee freely revealed on his prominent television and radio show that he had no prior knowledge of Bonner before watching the game. However, he praised her “smooth” game and scoring abilities. “Somebody on the Sun became the fifth-leading scorer in the history of the league last night,” said McAfee. “There are some bucket-getters on that other team that I have never heard of in my life.”
His co-hosts shared this attitude, recognizing the WNBA’s wealth of ability. “There are a lot of good players in the W,” one co-host said. “Which we’re finding out as we go along here as new fans.”
DeWanna Bonner responded to McAfee’s comments on social media with grace and positivity. She wrote, “DB is here. I am delighted you loved the game!! No affection was lost at all!! That was awesome that you watched!! You may now give a name to the @Connecticut Sun team!!! “Check us out again!!”
This exchange underlined the game’s greater significance, as it became the most-watched WNBA game on ESPN in history, with 2.3 million viewers,, according to ESPN PR. This increase in viewing not only brought Bonner to new fans, but also to her fiancée,, Alyssa Thomas, a four-time All-Star who is known for her triple-doubles. Last season, Thomas finished second in the WNBA MVP voting, highlighting her elite reputation in the league.
Bonner performed admirably throughout the game, scoring a team-high 20 points on an 8-of-14 shooting clip. Thomas had an incredible triple-double with 13 points, 13 assists, and 10 rebounds. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark, the rookie phenom, scored 20 points but struggled with her shooting efficiency, making only 5 of 15 attempts and setting a WNBA single-game turnover record of 10.
The event provided a huge amount of exposure for the Connecticut Sun and its star players. For McAfee and many others, it was an eye-opening experience that demonstrated the WNBA’s high level of competition and quality. Bonner’s polite response to McAfee’s newfound awareness highlighted the league’s friendly and inclusive culture.
As more fans, both new and old, tune in, the Connecticut Sun and athletes such as DeWanna Bonner and Alyssa Thomas will undoubtedly receive the respect they deserve. The increased visibility of their abilities and accomplishments reflects the WNBA’s growing popularity and admiration, pointing to a promising future for women’s professional basketball.