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Reflecting on Diana Taurasi’s legendary career with the Phoenix Mercury

Originally posted on Burn City Sports | By Reyna Stanley | Last updated Mar 31, 2025 9:07 AM ET

PHOENIX — With the WNBA Draft fast approaching, it’s a fitting time to reflect on one of the most pivotal draft selections in league history: the Phoenix Mercury’s decision to select Diana Taurasi with the No. 1 overall pick in 2004. That moment changed the course of the franchise and helped cement Taurasi as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

Coming out of UConn as a three-time NCAA champion, Taurasi was already a proven winner when she entered the league. Phoenix wasted no time making her the face of the franchise, and she quickly lived up to the hype. Taurasi was named WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2004 and has since spent her entire career with the Mercury, becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer and a three-time WNBA champion.

Over the years, Taurasi has been the heart and soul of the Mercury, known for her clutch performances, fierce competitiveness, and ability to take over games when it matters most. She led Phoenix to championships in 2007, 2009, and 2014, earning Finals MVP honors in 2009. A 10-time WNBA All-Star and five-time scoring champion, Taurasi’s impact extends beyond her statistics—she has been a cornerstone of the WNBA’s growth and popularity.

Her longevity in the league is just as impressive as her accolades. Now 42, Taurasi has spent two decades as the leader of the Mercury, adapting her game to remain a key contributor even as the league continues to evolve. She has played through injuries, roster changes, and coaching shifts, yet remains a focal point for Phoenix’s success.

Beyond her impact in Phoenix, Taurasi’s legacy extends throughout the basketball world. She has won five Olympic gold medals, competed internationally, and influenced an entire generation of players. As new stars enter the league through the WNBA Draft, Taurasi’s career serves as a reminder of how one player can shape a franchise for decades.

While no draft pick can replicate what Taurasi has done for Phoenix, the Mercury will look to find the next player who can carry the torch. No matter what the future holds, Taurasi’s legacy in Phoenix and the WNBA will remain unmatched.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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