Diana Taurasi becomes first WNBA player to score 10,000 points
The 41-year-old Phoenix Mercury guard finished with 42 points against the Atlanta Dream to reach a total of 10,024 career points.
Basketball
Five-time Olympic basketball champion Diana Taurasi now holds yet another record, as she became the first WNBA player in history to score 10,000 points on Thursday night (3 August).
In Phoenix Mercury’s 91-71 win over the Atlanta Dream, Taurasi also became the oldest player in WNBA history to score more than 40 points in a game.
"It was a cool night. You couldn't have written this any better, for our fans and for our city,” Taurasi told ESPN.
The three-time WNBA champion and two-time WNBA Finals Most Valuable Player holds a comfortable lead on the all-time scoring list, being over 2,500 points ahead of former WNBA player Tina Thompson, who holds second place with 7,488 points. Taurasi's current point total stands at 10,024.
“On behalf of the WNBA and basketball fans worldwide, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Diana on reaching the incredible milestone of 10,000 points as she continues to author new chapters is an illustrious WNBA career,” said Cathy Engelbert, WNBA commissioner, in a statement.
“Diana’s achievement stands as a testament to her skill, determination, and unwavering dedication to the game, which along with her competitive nature, has captivated fans with her incredible scoring ability, clutch performances, and unparalleled basketball IQ. We are honoured to witness this milestone.”
Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury will next face Seattle Storm on Saturday 5 August at 10pm EDT.