In a groundbreaking moment for women’s basketball, Diana Taurasi, the illustrious Phoenix Mercury guard, etched her name into the record books as the first-ever WNBA player to surpass the 10,000-point milestone. The atmosphere at the Footprint Center on that unforgettable Thursday night was nothing short of electric, with fans eagerly anticipating this historic feat.
Taurasi’s career has been nothing short of legendary. Known as the “White Mamba,” she has exemplified resilience, talent, and an unwavering commitment to the game. With just 8 minutes and 23 seconds remaining in the third quarter, she pulled up and effortlessly swished a triple, reaching the momentous 10,000-point mark. The crowd erupted into a thunderous ovation, recognizing the magnitude of the achievement and celebrating the incredible journey of this iconic player.
A three-time WNBA champion, Taurasi has been a driving force behind the growth and popularity of women’s basketball. Her impact extends far beyond her scoring ability; she has become a role model for aspiring athletes, proving that age is no barrier to greatness. At 41 years old, Taurasi’s performance on that night showcased her enduring passion for the sport and her ability to dominate the court like few others.
Scoring a season-high 42 points on her record-setting night, Taurasi displayed her trademark offensive prowess. Her shooting accuracy and ability to score from long-range were on full display as she shot 12-for-21 from the field and 6-for-13 from beyond the arc. The milestone game was a testament to her dedication to the sport and her relentless pursuit of excellence.
With this historic achievement, Taurasi’s name now stands at the pinnacle of the WNBA scoring charts, with a staggering 3,000 points more than the next active player. This remarkable statistic is a testament to her consistency and longevity in the league, solidifying her place among the greatest players to have ever graced the women’s game.
The Race to 10,000 Points: DeWanna Bonner and Jewell Loyd to Chase Diana Taurasi
Connecticut Sun guard DeWanna Bonner has been a standout player throughout her illustrious career, amassing an impressive 6,680 points and earning the eighth spot on the all-time WNBA scoring list. A former teammate of Diana Taurasi during their time with the Phoenix Mercury, Bonner’s talent and determination have made her a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Having played alongside the legendary Taurasi for a decade, Bonner’s game has been shaped by the experience and wisdom of her former teammate. Now at 35 years old, she continues to shine as a scoring machine, averaging an impressive 19.1 points per game with the Connecticut Sun. If she maintains this remarkable pace, she could potentially reach the coveted 10,000-point milestone within the next five years.
Bonner’s journey is one of perseverance and grit, and her impact on the game extends beyond her scoring ability. As she inches closer to this historic milestone, her place in the annals of women’s basketball history becomes increasingly cemented. With every basket she scores, she carries the legacy of those who came before her and paves the way for future generations of basketball stars.
Jewell Loyd: The Storm’s Shooting Star
Seattle Storm guard Jewell Loyd is another rising star in the WNBA, whose incredible scoring ability has positioned her as a prime contender in the race to 10,000 points. At just 29 years old, she has already amassed an impressive 4,489 points and currently leads the league with a remarkable average of 24.6 points per game.
Loyd’s electrifying performances on the court have captivated fans and earned her widespread recognition as one of the league’s most dynamic players. If she continues to perform at this extraordinary level, she could potentially reach the 10,000-point mark in approximately six years.
With each game, Loyd showcases her scoring prowess and versatility, leaving opponents in awe of her ability to take over a game. As she sets her sights on the 10,000-point milestone, she epitomizes the new generation of players elevating the level of play in the WNBA. Her journey is a testament to the league’s growth and the emergence of new stars who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the basketball court.
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