Diana Taurasi, celebrated basketball player and staple of the Phoenix Mercury team, hinted at potential retirement during the Phoenix Mercury’s regular season finale against the Seattle Storm. Although not officially announced, Taurasi stated, “If it is the last time, it felt like the first time,” inciting chants from the crowd beckoning “one more year.” Taurasi had a productive game, despite the team’s loss, validating her status as an athlete still very much in form. The audience paid tribute to the player, cheering her on as she was substituted back into the game in the final moments.
The game closed with a heart-warming tribute to the much-loved player. The pitch darkened to shine a spotlight on Taurasi, accompanied by a tribute video that played overhead. The montage had earlier been shared on the Mercury social media accounts, alluding to the much-speculated retirement announcement. Taurasi addressed the crowd and thanked Phoenix, a city she called home.
During her address, Taurasi extended thanks to her coaches, teammates, and every person who wore a WNBA jersey. She praised the former players who paved the way for the current league, dedicating her achievements to the collective effort of the WNBA community. The game also brought out a number of recognized athletes and coaches as a nod of respect to Taurasi’s potential last game, including Sue Bird, Megan Rapinoe, Geno Auriemma, and Chris Dailey, among others.
Destined to go down in history as a prominent figure in the sport, Taurasi’s career is laden with accomplishments. She has notched three championships, secured six gold medals with Team USA, and made 11 appearances in the WNBA All-Star Game. She’s the league’s all-time top scorer, and the first WNBA player to cross the 10,000 career points threshold, holding the league’s overall point record at 10,646. She also holds the unique distinction of becoming the oldest player, spanning both NBA and WNBA, to score 40 points in a game.
Although still very much a capable athlete, Taurasi’s potential retirement would see her leaving on a high. Under her leadership, the Mercury team advanced to the playoffs after missing the postseason for the first time in a decade. She will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the league’s most accomplished players, leaving behind a legacy that future generations of the sport can look up to.
Regardless of Taurasi’s retirement decision, this event stood as a testament to her influence within the sport and beyond. Her potential exit was an emotional moment for the WNBA and fans alike, as they might be saying goodbye to a player who has marked an era in the sport. Taurasi’s impact in the sport will endure through her records and the many athletes she’s inspired. This memorable moment reveals the depth of appreciation for a truly extraordinary player within the basketball community.
