Diana Taurasi’s Historic Feat: Shattering the 10,000 Points Milestone in the WNBA

Diana Taurasi Makes History with 10,000 Career Points in the WNBA

Aug. 4, 2023, 9:38 AM UTC

In a game against the Atlanta Dream, Diana Taurasi, the 41-year-old guard for the Phoenix Mercury, became the first player in WNBA history to score 10,000 points. Taurasi reached the milestone with a long 3-pointer during the third quarter, finishing the game with a season-high 42 points and pushing her total to 10,024.

A Historic Achievement

Known as the “White Mamba,” Taurasi has long been regarded as an icon in the world of basketball. Her achievement of 10,000 career points solidifies her place among the greats of the game. However, Taurasi has always prioritized winning over personal milestones and records.

“I really don’t think about the number, I really don’t,” Taurasi said. “I’ve always said I’ve just played basketball because I love to play. Literally, the only reason why I keep showing up to the gym right now is because I still love to play and you know, this group still shows up every day.”

Despite her focus on the team’s performance, it’s impossible to ignore the significance of Taurasi’s accomplishment. Her 10,000 points put her over 2,500 points ahead of second-place Tina Thompson. Throughout her career, Taurasi has consistently averaged 19.1 points per game.

A Tribute to a Phenomenal Player

Several prominent figures in the basketball community have applauded Taurasi’s historic achievement. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed her congratulations, recognizing Taurasi’s skill, determination, and unwavering dedication to the game. DeWanna Bonner, who played alongside Taurasi for ten years in Phoenix, described her teammate’s longevity and remarkable work ethic as truly incredible.

Taurasi’s achievement serves as an inspiration to her fellow players, with Jewell Loyd, the current scoring leader in the WNBA, acknowledging the immense task of reaching 10,000 points. Despite an expanded schedule of 40 games a year, Loyd doubts she will have the opportunity to amass such a record in her career.

A Legacy of Greatness

Taurasi’s impact extends beyond her scoring prowess. She has been the cornerstone of the Phoenix Mercury since her debut in 2004 after being drafted first overall out of UConn. In addition to her career regular-season scoring record, she also holds the record for playoff scoring. Taurasi has led the Mercury to three WNBA championships and has earned MVP of the Finals twice.

Interim Mercury coach Nikki Blue spoke about witnessing the greatness of Taurasi in this historic moment. She emphasized that Taurasi’s contributions to the sport, her team, and the league as a whole cannot be taken for granted.

“We are getting able to witness greatness in front of us,” Blue said. “You take for granted how good DT is. How she’s been this past 19 years. To witness her in this moment, it’s super special. I hope everyone watches and embraces the moment. She’s been the face of our organization and our league for several years.”

Setting a New Standard

Achievements like Taurasi’s highlight the incredible skill and drive of women in sports. While Taurasi’s record-breaking moment is historic, it also serves as a reminder of the progress still to be made in building a more equitable and inclusive sports landscape. Women’s sports deserve greater recognition and support to thrive and inspire future generations.

Taurasi’s milestone should encourage fans and fellow athletes to appreciate the relentless pursuit of excellence in all areas of life. Whether it be in the realm of sports or beyond, Taurasi’s dedication and love for the game are qualities worth emulating.

As Taurasi continues to add to her remarkable career, let us celebrate her achievements and recognize the limitless potential of women in sports.