BAKU – Diana Taurasi, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time and the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer, announced her retirement after a remarkable 20-season career, according to ESPN.
“Mentally and physically, I’m just full. That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full and I’m happy,” Taurasi, 42, told Time magazine.
From her dominance at the University of Connecticut to her iconic career with the Phoenix Mercury, Taurasi has cemented her legacy in the world of basketball.
During her illustrious career, she led the Mercury to three WNBA championships (2007, 2009, 2014) and became the first basketball player ever to win six Olympic gold medals.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert praised Taurasi as “one of the greatest competitors to ever play the game” and highlighted her unmatched records in scoring and three-pointers, which have inspired fans across the globe.
“In a record-setting career that saw her play 20 seasons, score more points, and make more three-point shots than any player in WNBA history, she has earned the unquestioned respect of players around the world, delivered electrifying moments, and captivated fans again and again,” Engelbert said in a statement.
Taurasi scored 10,646 points — the most by any WNBA player — in 565 regular-season games. She also added 1,476 points in 72 playoff appearances.
Phoenix, which drafted her No. 1 overall in 2004, benefited greatly from her leadership, claiming WNBA championships in 2007, 2009, and 2014.
A five-time WNBA scoring champion and 14-time All-WNBA selection, Taurasi was also the league MVP in 2009 and earned Finals MVP honors in 2009 and 2014.
She retires as the WNBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made, with 1,447 in the regular season and 215 in the playoffs. (AZERTAC)
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