Diana Taurasi Makes History: The First WNBA Player to Score 10,000 Points!
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Diana Taurasi Makes History:
Diana Taurasi, the legendary basketball player affectionately known as the “White Mamba,” has once again etched her name in the annals of basketball history. On a memorable Thursday night, she became the first player in WNBA history to achieve the incredible milestone of 10,000 points. The 41-year-old achieved this feat during a game against the Atlanta Dream, where she dropped a season-high 42 points to secure a decisive 91-71 victory for her team, the Phoenix Mercury.
Throughout her illustrious career, Taurasi has always demonstrated an unwavering focus on winning rather than chasing milestones or records. In her own words, she plays the game she loves because of her passion for basketball. Her dedication to the sport is evident in the way she shows up every day, leading her team with determination and heart.
Taurasi’s 10,000 points set her apart from her peers, with a significant lead of more than 2,500 points ahead of Tina Thompson, who occupies the second spot in the scoring rankings. With an impressive career scoring average of 19.1 points per game, Taurasi has been a force to be reckoned with on the court. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and basketball fans all over the world have recognized and celebrated her accomplishment as she continues to leave a lasting impression on the game.
The closest active player to Taurasi’s milestone is DeWanna Bonner, a talented forward for the Connecticut Sun. However, she still trails by nearly 3,300 points, highlighting the magnitude of Taurasi’s accomplishment. Even Jewell Loyd, the current WNBA scoring leader, with 4,458 points in her nine-year career, acknowledges the challenge of reaching the 10,000-point mark, considering the league’s expanded schedule.
Despite her monumental achievement, Taurasi remains humble and grounded. She often doesn’t recall specific moments from her scoring journey, but one game that holds a special place in her heart is when she surpassed Tina Thompson’s record in 2017. It was in her hometown of Los Angeles, and the late Kobe Bryant was present at the game. In a tribute to his nickname, “Black Mamba,” he affectionately dubbed Taurasi the “White Mamba,” a name that has become synonymous with her relentless and fierce style of play.
Taurasi’s 10,000th point was scored in front of an adoring home crowd at the Footprint Center, adding to the significance of the moment. As the cornerstone of the Phoenix Mercury since being drafted in 2004 out of UConn, she has not only become the career regular-season scoring leader but also holds that distinction in the playoffs. Her impressive resume includes three WNBA championships for the Mercury and two Finals MVP awards.
Nikki Blue, the interim coach of the Mercury, emphasizes the magnitude of witnessing Taurasi’s greatness firsthand. For nearly two decades, Taurasi has been the face of not only the Phoenix franchise but also the entire league. Her impact extends beyond the court, inspiring countless players and fans alike.
Nikki Blue, the interim coach of the Mercury, emphasizes the magnitude of witnessing Taurasi’s greatness firsthand. For nearly two decades, Taurasi has been the face of not only the Phoenix franchise but also the entire league. Her impact extends beyond the court, inspiring countless players and fans alike.
As Diana Taurasi continues to dazzle and make history, her legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of women’s basketball is cemented. Her passion for the game, her unrelenting competitive spirit, and her remarkable basketball IQ have captivated fans worldwide. She remains an icon in the world of hoops, a living legend whose contributions to the sport will be cherished for generations to come. So, as we celebrate her 10,000 points, let’s savor every moment and appreciate the greatness of Diana Taurasi, the “White Mamba.”
