The Phoenix Mercury recently shared a not-so-subtle video on X, formerly Twitter, regarding guard Diana Taurasi. The video hinted that her time in a Mercury uniform may be coming to an end soon.
𝐈𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐈𝐬 𝐈𝐭
You have two more opportunities to see the Greatest of All-Time at home. 🎟️ https://t.co/Rb3988XXlX pic.twitter.com/uiYrU0JWYv
— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) September 9, 2024
This isn’t the first instance where Taurasi has been asked about retiring. She has often mentioned retiring only when she stops playing altogether. Despite this, many have questioned why she would continue playing when she has nothing left to prove. Taurasi holds numerous records, including being the all-time leader in points scored, three-pointers made and attempted, and most Olympic gold medals in basketball.
In 2024, Taurasi had the chance to solidify her legacy globally. Before the Summer Olympics, Taurasi and her best friend Sue Bird were both tied with five Olympic gold medals. Taurasi made a joke about her inclusion in the stacked USA Women’s National Team roster, as reported by Lindsay Schnell of USA Today.
“Yeah, it’s the only reason I came,” Taurasi said. “It’s funny cause we scored the same amount of points today.”
What does Diana Taurasi have left to prove for the Mercury, WNBA?
Frankly, Taurasi has nothing left to prove. She has broken almost every conceivable record in the game and has played alongside or against every WNBA Hall-of-Famer. Even in her twentieth year, she continues to have a significant impact on rookies like Caitlin Clark, Cameron Brink, and Angel Reese.
Similar to when Taurasi entered the league, Clark’s game bears similarities. Both are solid ball-handlers, exceptional perimeter shooters, and have a knack for scoring. While Clark had better college statistics, she also had more responsibilities and defensive attention. Despite attempts to create a rivalry between the two heading into 2024, it couldn’t be further from the truth.
Taurasi has served as an inspiration to several players, including Sabrina Ionescu, Kelsey Plum, and former WNBA all-star Lindsay Whalen. Her confidence, style, and consistency have made her a respected figure within the WNBA community and beyond. In 2023, Taurasi reached another significant milestone, scoring 10,000 points. When asked if she would change anything about her basketball journey, her response was straightforward.
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When Diana Taurasi hit 10,000 points, I asked her if she would change anything about her journey to playing basketball.
This was her response: pic.twitter.com/8mh9xpAKeY
— Hayden Cilley (@HaydenCilley) September 9, 2024
With two more home games left in the season, the Mercury can expect a strong showing from fans. The last time Taurasi made history, she scored 42 points on her way to 10,000. As the WNBA Playoffs approach, Taurasi could provide one final display of greatness if she chooses to retire after the 2024 season.
