It's well known that this may be Diana Taurasi's last appearance. WNBA tonight's regular season game. Phoenix Mercury social media managers certainly hinted at that possibility, spearheading a “What if This Is the Last Time” campaign and posting a tribute video to her early Thursday.
Taurasi himself has avoided making any clear statements, but there are rumors circulating that he may retire after this season.
Taurasi was asked about retirement earlier this week but didn't offer a definitive answer either way.
“I don't know,” Taurasi said. “The last few weeks have been a little nerve-wracking for me. I don't want to get emotional and make any rash decisions. I know the end is near. I just don't know when.”
Prior to the New York Liberty's regular-season finale, head coach Sandy Brondello was asked about the possibility of Taurasi retiring this year and used the opportunity to praise his former player. Brondello coached Taurasi from 2014-2021, during which the Phoenix Mercury won one championship in 2014.
“Her career is incredible, 20 years of playing at that level and what she's brought to the organization. She's a winner. Three titles, championships. I know that's not a big deal in 20 years, but even winning one is tough. Some guys never win one. But it's incredible that she's been able to continue playing at such a high level for such a long time,” Brondello said.
Taurasi, 42, is the WNBA's all-time leading scorer and is widely considered one of the best players in the game's history.
She is averaging 15.1 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game this season. The Mercury will face the Minnesota Lynx in Game 1 of the first round of the playoffs on Sunday, September 22.
“It's been an honor for me to coach her,” Brondello said. “She's the GOAT. And it's not just her scoring. She's a great scorer, but her competitiveness, her spirit, her will to win with her teammates, her leadership. So, if this is the last of Diana, [she’s] She still plays on her own terms and continues to play great basketball.”
