11-Time WNBA All-Star Begins a New Era
Diana Taurasi walked so that the new generation of WNBA stars could run. On Tuesday, in an interview with Time Magazine, she announced her decision to retire from the Phoenix Mercury after 20 seasons. This announcement was then confirmed by the Mercury. In her retirement announcement, Taurasi expressed that she felt "mentally and physically full" and was happy with her decision. Her former coach at UConn, Geno Auriemma, praised her as the greatest winner in the history of basketball and highlighted her significant contributions to the sport. As this living legend closes an era in her life, let’s reflect on what her accomplishments have done for women’s basketball.
Taurasi, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, leaves behind a legacy that includes three WNBA Championships, a WNBA MVP Award, and six Olympic Gold Medals. Taurasi's impact on the game is immeasurable. She holds the record for the most points scored in WNBA history, surpassing 10,000 points in August 2023. Her career also includes numerous accolades such as leading the league in made three-pointers and free throws. Taurasi's excellence on the court has been a driving force in the growth and success of the WNBA. Her impact is displayed in this quote: “Diana is the greatest to have ever played the game. I’ve been a fan of her my entire life, she is the ultimate leader and teammate,” Mercury owner Mat Ishbia said in a statement. “She’s had an incredible impact on our franchise, our community, and the game of basketball. Her name is synonymous with the Phoenix Mercury and she will forever be part of our family.” There are countless number of her peers who speak highly of who she is and what she stands for.
Taurasi is known for her feisty and merciless play against her opponents, to the point where she earned the nickname “White Mamba” from the “Black Mamba” himself, Kobe Bryant. She also is competitive and talks trash in a world that tells women to do otherwise. Yet, there’s a duality to the White Mamba. Off the court, she is humble, charismatic, and friendly, with a wide smile. Taurasi has used her charisma to speak on social inequalities when it comes to a WNBA league that is 80 percent Black, along with the fight for greater salaries for its players.
Taurasi's retirement marks the end of an era, but her influence on women's basketball will be felt for generations to come. She has inspired countless players and fans with her passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Speaking of excellence, her peers Sue Bird, Alana Beard, Sylvia Fowles, and Cappie Pondexter are to be enshrined June 14th in the Tennessee Theatre as 2025 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductees. Now, you may ask how this relates to the great Diana Taurasi. Well, if you look at the caliber of players in that list, it assures that Taurasi is sure to have her name immortalized next year. Taurasi, we are thankful for the years that you gave your all for the sport that you love. It is a known fact that fans love to see you excel in the game of basketball.
