Tina Charles made a historic leap on Aug. 21, surpassing Tina Thompson to claim the No. 2 spot on the WNBA all-time scoring list. The current leader, Diana Taurasi, was present on the court to acknowledge Charles’ achievement, and after the game, the Dream center was eager to show her admiration for Taurasi’s impact on the league.
“Just to be mentioned alongside Diana [Taurasi] is beyond my wildest dreams. Her influence on me personally, and on the league as a whole, is immense. She is truly the GOAT. I am incredibly grateful,” Charles expressed post-game.
Taurasi holds a lead of approximately 3,000 points over Charles, but both players have exemplified dedication and longevity in their careers, showcasing the essence of hard work and enduring success.
WNBA Scoring Legends: Diana Taurasi and Tina Charles
Originally drafted as the No. 1 pick in 2010 by the Connecticut Sun, Charles, who excelled at UConn during her collegiate tenure, claimed the rookie of the year title and set records for rebounds and double-doubles. She reflects on her journey with a sense of profound gratitude.
“This milestone feels like a full circle in my career, especially sharing it with Tanisha, a dear teammate and mentor. Being on the court with [Taurasi] and following her on the scoring list is something I could never have fathomed,” Charles stated post-game.
Reconnecting on the court as coach and player, Tanisha Wright reminisced about the fierce competitiveness and camaraderie she shared with Charles during their time together at the New York Liberty.
“Our competitive spirit shone brightest during our intense practices. We pushed each other daily, striving for perfection. If we lost a drill, we demanded a rematch,” Wright recollected.
Charles boasts an impressive resume in the WNBA, with multiple All-Star appearances, scoring and rebounding championships, and induction into the NYC Basketball Hall of Fame.
“My love for the game stems from my New York roots and the thrill of scoring. It’s always been about the challenge to put points on the board, especially in the Big Apple,” Charles shared.
Similarly, Taurasi has enjoyed a stellar career, accumulating accolades like Rookie of the Year, WNBA titles, Olympic gold medals, MVP honors, and scoring championships. While it may take time for someone to catch up to their scoring feats, witnessing these two legends give their all on the court remains a gratifying sight.
