Mercury Star Diana Taurasi Becomes First To Score 10,000 Points In WNBA

Phoenix Mercury star Diana Taurasi hit a major milestone on Thursday night when she became the first WNBA player to reach 10,000 points. The 41-year-old scored her season high of 42 points in Mercury's victory against the Atlanta Dream which brought her total points to 10,024.

History was made on Thursday night at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona when Taurasi reached 10,000 points. This achievement put Taurasi more than 2,500 points ahead of second-place Tina Thompson.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert released a statement about Taurasi's accomplishment.

"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 chapter in an illustrious WNBA career," Engelbert said 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 honored to witness this milestone."

Just playing basketball because of her love of the game has been something Taurasi has focused on more than milestones or beating records.

"I really don't think about the number, I really don't. I've always said I've just played basketball because I love to play," Taurasi said last week, according to NBC News. "Literally, the only reason why I keep showing up to the gym right now is because I still love to play and you know, this group still shows up every day."

Thursday night, Taurasi addressed the full arena of fans after hitting 10,000 points.

"I really don't even know where to start. You know, the last couple of days, I've really been thinking about why I still play basketball, why I still show up every day, and I still don't know why," she said. "But moments like this that you share with a whole city, with teammates I've been teammates for years, some for days, and to see just how much everyone enjoys it, makes me feel really, really good. And there's people that been here since day one, obviously my parents were here."

She continued to share her gratitude for the Phoenix organization, the city and the fans.

"It's easy when we're the best team in the league. These are the dog days. This is when it's really, really hard and we really appreciate you guys for coming out and supporting us," she continued. "I mean that means more than anything and I'm just thankful that I've gotten this opportunity to do it in front of you guys for 19 years and I'm really, really thankful to the game of basketball. It's what I love, it's my passion, it makes me feel good every single day and I can't wait for all the good things to come, not only for this team but for the WNBA in the future."

The Mercury kept all their fans in the know with multiple posts on Instagram sharing Taurasi's big moment. Many fans left supportive and congratulatory comments for the team and Taurasi.

"So great to witness WNBA history. The stars definitely aligned perfectly for me to witness this moment," one fan wrote. Another added, "What a privilege to have the opportunity to see this amazing player."

Another fan shared, "Congratulations @dianataurasi on an amazing accomplishment you truly are the ? and your name will be etched in the history books forever!!! ??"

The Mercury shared a photo of Taurasi captioned, "All she needed was 18. She dropped 42. ?? points in honor of BG to hit ??,??? for Kobe ?"

One fan who was in the building for the exciting moment shared what will always be a great memory of the game for them, "I yelled, now you're just showing off Diana. Minutes later she sinks a beautiful 3 and poses. It was epic. My kids wouldn't let me leave without collecting a fist full of streamers lol."

Another fan wrote, "Way to DT!! So proud for you!! It’s not over yet. There’s more to come!!! You’re the best!!!!"