When consistency meets leadership, DeWanna Bonner’s name naturally finds its way into the conversation. Standing 6-foot-4, the Auburn standout entered the WNBA in 2009 as a top-five draft pick and immediately turned heads. Her first three seasons brought her three consecutive Sixth Woman of the Year awards, a rare feat that underlined her impact off the bench. Over time, she became a 6-time All-Star, 2-time champion, and a reliable force on both ends of the court. She has averaged roughly 15 points and 6 rebounds per game across her career and continues to add to her legacy, even in her mid-30s.

Even in her mid-30s, Bonner continues to post career averages of about 15 points and 6 rebounds per game, a testament to both her durability and excellence. And it was the support of her family that allowed her to chase this excellence on the hardwood. But who are these pillars behind her WNBA journey? Let’s find out more about LaShelle Bonner and Greg McCall.

Who is DeWanna Bonner’s father?

Greg McCall isn’t just a supportive father; he’s also a basketball mind in his own right. As the head coach for the women’s basketball program at Cal State Bakersfield, Greg has lived and breathed the sport for decades. That wealth of experience naturally spilled over into his daughter’s upbringing. From early on, he drilled DeWanna on the fundamentals, preached the importance of consistency, and instilled a sense of discipline that later became her trademark in the WNBA.

Greg’s role wasn’t just about teaching X’s and O’s. He helped DeWanna understand the mental toughness needed to survive in high-pressure environments. He was there through the highs of championship runs and the lows of setbacks, serving as both coach and motivator. Even today, McCall continues to give back to the game, running youth skills camps and mentoring the next generation of hoopers.

His pride in his players, past and present, remains evident. In June 2025, he posted on Instagram about former player Jasmin Dixon, who had stepped into the coaching world. “I’m a very proud coach, watching [Jasmin] represent BC at Stanford’s WBB camp. She will soon be a head coach,” McCall wrote, highlighting how his influence continues to ripple outward beyond his own family.

Who is DeWanna Bonner’s mother?

While Greg brought the playbook, LaShelle Bonner offered the kind of quiet strength that every elite athlete needs. Not as publicly visible as McCall, LaShelle worked tirelessly to keep her family balanced. She was ensuring DeWanna never lost sight of her goals. Her encouragement was a constant presence, and her sacrifices behind the scenes gave DeWanna the stability to chase her dreams at the highest level.

DeWanna has often credited her mother as the anchor in her life. The resilience and perseverance she shows on the court stem directly from LaShelle’s example at home. While Greg provided technical insight, it was LaShelle who reminded DeWanna to believe in herself when times got tough. That blend of emotional grounding and maternal guidance became just as valuable as any coaching tip.

How LaShelle and Greg shaped DeWanna’s path to the WNBA

DeWanna didn’t grow up alone in this journey. She is one of four siblings, brother Justin McCall, and sisters Vin’Centia Dewberry and Erica McCall. Erica interestingly shares the same birthday as her DeWanna was born in 1987, and Erica in 1995, making them eight years apart. It was a household where basketball wasn’t just a sport but a way of life, mixed with family values like humility, hard work, and putting the team before self.

Her parents played their part in small but powerful ways. Long drives to tournaments, late-night pep talks, and celebrating both milestones and minor victories. They weren’t just spectators but active participants in shaping her character and career. That family environment paved the way for Bonner’s rise from a talented Auburn star to a decorated WNBA veteran.

Now, with two championships, multiple All-Star nods, and a reputation as one of the most consistent scorers in league history, Bonner’s career reflects not just her own dedication but also the sacrifices and love of her parents. LaShelle and Greg McCall were more than just her parents. They were her first coaches, mentors, and biggest fans. Together, they provided the balance of knowledge, encouragement, and sacrifice that turned a gifted child into one of the most respected names in women’s basketball.

DeWanna Bonner’s story is a reminder that while talent can open doors, it often takes the foundation laid by family to keep walking through them.