Taurasi's Jersey Retired

Diana Taurasi's No. 3 jersey was retired by the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday, August 16, in a ceremony that celebrated her 20-year career and numerous accomplishments, including three WNBA championships and the league's all-time leading scorer title.

Taurasi was inducted into the Mercury's Ring of Honor, joining other legends such as Cheryl Miller, Jennifer Gillom, Bridget Pettis, Michele Timms, and her wife Penny Taylor. The induction ceremony was attended by Taurasi's wife, their two children, and other notable figures such as Brittney Griner and Devin Booker.

Taurasi's impressive career statistics include 10,646 points, making her the WNBA's all-time leading scorer. She won three WNBA championships with the Mercury in 2007, 2009, and 2014, and was a 11-time All-Star and 5-time scoring champion.

In honor of her career point total, a street outside of Mortgage Matchup Center was named '10646 Taurasi Way'. Taurasi partook in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for one of the three refurbished outdoor courts in the Phoenix area. A mural with Taurasi's likeness was also painted on a wall outside of the arena.

Taurasi thanked team owner Mat Ishbia and the organization for valuing the Mercury with equal treatment and respect as the Suns organization.

## Why it matters Taurasi's induction into the Ring of Honor and jersey retirement ceremony mark a significant milestone in her career and a celebration of her contributions to the Phoenix Mercury and the WNBA. The ceremony also highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring the achievements of female athletes and the impact they have on their communities. As Taurasi looks to the future, she has expressed her desire to join the Mercury ownership group, which would make her one of the few female athletes to hold an ownership stake in a professional sports team.

## What happens next Taurasi's induction into the Ring of Honor and jersey retirement ceremony are just the beginning of a new chapter in her career. As she looks to join the Mercury ownership group, she will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the franchise and the WNBA. With her dedication and passion for the sport, Taurasi is sure to continue to be a driving force in the world of basketball.