Taurasi Makes WNBA History with 10,000 Points
Diana Taurasi is in a league of her own.
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Diana Taurasi, the veteran player for the Phoenix Mercury, etched her name in the WNBA record books as the first player to reach 10,000 points. The historic moment unfolded during the Mercury's triumphant 91-71 victory against the Atlanta Dream on Thursday. Playing in front of her devoted home crowd in Phoenix, Taurasi delighted fans as she scored all 42 points, the highest single-game tally she's achieved since 2010.
The significance of the occasion was not lost on anyone, and it was only fitting that Taurasi accomplished the milestone by sinking back-to-back 3-pointers in just 33 seconds during the third quarter when the Mercury held a 51-39 lead. As the crowd erupted in joy, her teammates surrounded her in a heartwarming group hug, celebrating the historic moment together.
Diana Taurasi, the iconic figure in women's basketball, has been the WNBA's all-time leading scorer since June 18, 2017, surpassing Tina Thompson's previous record of 7,488 points. But her greatness didn't stop there. With an illustrious career spanning 19 years, she reached an incredible milestone as the first player in WNBA history to score 8,000, 9,000, and 10,000 points.
Yet, despite her numerous achievements and accolades, Taurasi's focus remains firmly fixed on her love for the game. Basketball, to her, is more than just numbers on a scoreboard; it is a passion and an obsession. As she recently put it, "I only think about basketball because I love to play. Literally that's the only reason I show up to the gym right now."
Her journey began in 2004 when the Phoenix Mercury selected her as the first overall pick in the WNBA draft after her standout career at UConn, leading the Huskies to three national championships. With Taurasi's arrival, the Mercury transformed from an 8-26 record team to a winner, claiming their first WNBA championship in 2007. Over the years, she added more titles to her name, including two additional WNBA championships, a Rookie of the Year award, and a league MVP honor in 2009.
Throughout her 20-year tenure with the Mercury, Taurasi has experienced the highs and lows of the game, shaping her into the resilient and versatile player she is today. Her love for basketball has taken her through the euphoria of victories and the challenges of tough seasons. Despite the team's struggles in the current season, her dedication and competitive spirit remain unwavering. However, she admits that such seasons take a toll and prompt thoughts of stepping away from the game.
Beyond the WNBA, Taurasi's legacy extends to the international stage, where she has represented the United States in multiple Olympics and FIBA World Cups. Her remarkable collection of five Olympic gold medals and three FIBA World Cups speaks volumes about her exceptional talent and commitment to excellence.
As Taurasi reaches the historic milestone of 10,000 points, her contributions to the sport of basketball and her status as one of the greatest players of all time are cemented in history. Yet, her journey is far from over, and her love for the game continues to drive her forward.
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