Every league has its all-time greats, but only one player can sit at the very top of the scoring list. In the WNBA, that crown belongs to Diana Taurasi, the Phoenix Mercury legend whose shooting, longevity, and competitive fire have set her apart for nearly two decades.
On June 18, 2017, in Los Angeles against the Sparks, Taurasi etched her name into history. With a mid-range jumper in the second quarter, she officially passed Tina Thompson to become the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer. The basket looked effortless, just another smooth shot in a career defined by them, but it was the culmination of years of relentless excellence.
The moment was paused briefly so the crowd could acknowledge the milestone. Even Sparks fans rose to their feet, recognizing that history had just been made. Teammates mobbed Taurasi, who smiled and waved, clearly emotional but still locked into the game. That’s who she was — competitive to her core, even in a historic moment.
What makes Taurasi’s record so special isn’t just the points, but the way she scored them. From deep three-pointers that barely grazed the net, to clutch shots in the closing minutes of playoff battles, to fearless drives into the paint, Taurasi built her career on big moments and bigger shots. Nicknamed “White Mamba” by Kobe Bryant, she became the ultimate closer in women’s basketball.
Her career achievements go beyond scoring — multiple championships, MVP awards, Olympic gold medals — but the scoring record is perhaps the purest reflection of her greatness. It’s not just about talent; it’s about durability, consistency, and the ability to produce night after night for years.
Even now, as younger stars like Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, and Arike Ogunbowale rise in the league, Taurasi’s record looks nearly untouchable. She has pushed the benchmark so high that it may take decades for anyone to catch her.
After the game, Taurasi reflected with characteristic humility mixed with her trademark competitiveness:
“I’ve just tried to play the game the right way. I’ve had amazing teammates who’ve made this possible. Records are cool, but winning is what I’ve always cared about most.”
Still, records matter — and this one ensured that Diana Taurasi’s name will live forever as the scoring queen of the WNBA.
