Taurasi’s résumé speaks for itself: three WNBA championships with the Phoenix Mercury (2007, 2009, 2014), two Finals MVP awards, one league MVP, and the all-time scoring record with 10,646 points, among other records.

Cunningham joined the Mercury in 2019 and played six seasons alongside Taurasi. After Taurasi’s retirement, Phoenix traded Cunningham to the Indiana Fever — pairing her with Clark — as part of a four-team deal.

Ahead of the Fever’s matchup with the Mercury, Cunningham spoke with Hayden Cilley of ClutchPoints about her current and former superstar teammates. Before making any comparisons, she made it clear: Taurasi is her GOAT over any other player.

“DT will always be my GOAT,” Cunningham said. “I’ve never met someone who thinks the game how she thinks. The way that she was a pro in doing her weights, her rehab. The way she trained in the offseason when she was toward the end of her career, when she wasn’t going overseas. I’ve just never seen anything like that. But the way that Caitlin thinks of the game, that’s a really close second”.

“They’re always 10 plays ahead of everyone,” Cunningham added. “They’re always on a whole different wavelength. I’m just happy that I got my time with DT… But it’s been fun to be a sponge and then, kind of talking with Caitlin. … She’s at the beginning of her professional career, but there are a lot of similarities”.

Taurasi about Clark’s Impact

Taurasi and Clark only shared one WNBA season, facing each other twice — both wins for the Fever star. While rumors suggested tension between the two, Taurasi dismissed them in an interview with FanSided.

“We get along really well,” Taurasi stated. “We got some great interactions. I just absolutely love what she does on the court, off the court. When I watch her play, and the way she goes about her business, there’s a seriousness about it that I love. … You know, she’s taking this game to new heights and it’s been amazing to watch and follow her. You know, it’s only gonna get better for our league and for Caitlin”.

Now retired, Taurasi is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever play the game. Griner, meanwhile, is showing exactly why her current team, the Atlanta Dream, has become one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference.

For these reasons — among many others — Cunningham didn’t hesitate to tell the media that both players should be considered Hall of Famers.

“They’re such great people,” Fever’s key player told Aya Abdeen of Ball Is Life regarding Griner and Taurasi. “They’re hall of famers in our league.”

The three players were once key pillars for the Mercury, but their paths eventually took different directions. Taurasi, a WNBA legend, is now retired. Cunningham is shining with the Fever, while Griner is thriving in her current role with the Dream.

The lasting impact of this trio in Phoenix

The trio of Sophie Cunningham, Diana Taurasi, and Brittney Griner left an indelible mark on the Phoenix basketball landscape. Taurasi, a living legend and the GOAT of the WNBA, cemented the franchise’s legacy with her offensive prowess, leading the Mercury to multiple championships.

Griner, the dominant center, joined her to form one of the league’s most lethal duos, providing unmatched defensive force and a commanding presence in the paint. Cunningham, a local who became a key role player, endeared herself to Phoenix fans with her grit and clutch shooting, playing a crucial role in team chemistry and proving to be one of the league’s best three-point shooters.

Together, they not only racked up wins and accolades but also defined an era of Mercury basketball, leaving a legacy that echoes long after their shared time on the court.

At the heart of women’s basketball, the WNBA has become much more than just a league: it’s a stage where stories are written that defy the odds and redefine the limits of the sport.

Each season brings not only new talent and excitement but also milestones that feel like they belong in an epic script—from triple-doubles that exceed expectations to rebounding averages that seem untouchable.

Players in the league, like the respected and talented Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird, have set records that not only highlight their skill but also elevate the game itself. Check out the ones that will forever be remembered…

Diana Taurasi – All-time leading scorer

Diana Taurasi continues to hold the title of all-time leading scorer in WNBA history, with over 9,900 career points, a milestone reached during the 2023 season. She, who has played for the Phoenix Mercury since her debut in 2004, has shown remarkable consistency throughout her career.

Her ability to score from anywhere on the court—whether with jump shots, drives, or three-pointers—has made her one of the league’s most prolific players. This record symbolizes not only her individual talent but also her longevity in a highly competitive sport.

In addition to her scoring prowess, she has been a cornerstone for the Phoenix Mercury franchise, leading them to multiple championships. Her presence on the court remains a challenge for opposing defenses. At 41 years old in 2024, she continues to set the standard for future generations of players.

Lisa Leslie – First dunk in WNBA history

On July 30, 2002, Lisa Leslie became the first player to perform a dunk in an official WNBA game. This historic moment occurred during a matchup between the Los Angeles Sparks and the Miami Sol, marking a milestone in the evolution of women’s basketball.

The dunk not only showcased her athletic abilities but also symbolized a significant step forward in how the physical potential of female players in the league was perceived. This event was a turning point in promoting women’s basketball as an exciting and dynamic sport.

Known for her dominance on both ends of the court, Leslie was a pioneer in women’s basketball, celebrated not just for her skills but also for her cultural impact. Her ability to dunk inspired future players to develop a more explosive game. Throughout her career, she was a four-time Olympic champion and a two-time WNBA MVP, cementing her legacy as one of the all-time greats.

Sue Bird – All-time assists leader

Sue Bird holds the WNBA record for the most assists, with a total of 3,234 over her illustrious career, which concluded in 2022. As the point guard for the Seattle Storm for over two decades, she excelled in court vision, tactical intelligence and precise passing.

This record reflects her ability to make her teammates shine, creating scoring opportunities in every game. Her playstyle and leadership made her a key player in multiple Storm championships.

She is celebrated not only for her impressive numbers but also for her longevity and consistency. Her adaptability to various playing styles and her ability to maximize her team’s potential have made her an iconic figure in women’s basketball.

A’Ja Wilson – Most rebounds in a aeason

The record for most rebounds in a season, once held by Cheryl Ford, has been surpassed. Currently, this record belongs to A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces, who set a new standard in 2024 with 408 rebounds in a single season.

Wilson’s dominance on both defensive and offensive boards has been instrumental in her team’s success, solidifying her as one of the league’s most complete players. This milestone underscores the evolving competitiveness and skill in the WNBA.

Diana Taurasi – Most 3-point field goals made

Diana Taurasi also holds the record for the most three-pointers made in WNBA history, with over 1,300 shots from beyond the arc by the end of the 2023 season. This achievement further solidifies her reputation as one of the greatest shooters of all time.

She has been especially dangerous in pressure situations, demonstrating an impressive ability to hit three-pointers at critical moments. Her ability to create space and shoot with high precision has been a key factor in the Phoenix Mercury’s success throughout her career.

The impact of this record goes beyond the numbers. Taurasi redefined what it means to be a long-distance threat in women’s basketball, influencing generations of players to improve their perimeter game.

Tamika Catchings – Career steals

Tamika Catchings is the all-time leader in steals in WNBA history, with 1,074 steals at the time of her retirement in 2016. This record reflects her defensive excellence and her ability to read the game ahead of time.

She, who spent her entire career with the Indiana Fever, was a disruptive force on the defensive side of the court, using her speed, instincts and positioning skills to create turnovers for the opposition. Her defensive ability earned her five Defensive Player of the Year awards.

This record is a testament to Catchings’ versatility, as she was not only a standout defender but also a reliable scorer and leader on her team. Her all-around style of play and competitive approach made her one of the most respected players in the league’s history.

Breanna Stewart – Most points in a season

The record for the most points in a season, once held by Maya Moore, has been surpassed. In 2024, Breanna Stewart set a new record with 947 points in a single season, breaking Moore’s previous record.

Her ability to score from any position on the court, along with her leadership in key moments, was pivotal to this achievement. This record reflects the evolution of women’s basketball, with current players constantly raising the level of competition.

Maya Moore, however, remains one of the top scorers in WNBA history. Her previous record symbolized her offensive dominance during her years with the Minnesota Lynx. Although she retired young to focus on social justice issues, her legacy as a prolific scorer and impactful player continues to inspire.

Phoenix Mercury – Longest winning streak

The record for the longest winning streak in WNBA history belongs to the Phoenix Mercury, with 16 consecutive victories in the 2014 season. Led by Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner and Candice Dupree, this team displayed a level of cohesion and dominance rarely seen in the league.

Their streak included wins against some of the strongest teams of that season and was crucial in securing the league’s best record and the eventual championship.

This feat highlights the importance of teamwork and consistency throughout a season. The 2014 Phoenix Mercury is still remembered as one of the best teams in WNBA history. Their ability to execute offensively and defensively was key in setting this historic record.

Seattle Storm – Best regular season record

The Seattle Storm holds the record for the best regular-season performance in WNBA history, achieved in 2020 with a 18-4 record during a season shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Led by Breanna Stewart and Sue Bird, the Storm demonstrated absolute dominance throughout the season, combining unstoppable offense with solid defense. This record is a reflection of the team’s adaptability and resilience in a year full of challenges.

In addition to their success in the regular season, it capped off the year by winning the WNBA championship, reaffirming their place as one of the most dominant teams in history. This achievement is not only a testament to the individual skill of their stars but also to the collective commitment of the team.

Lauren Jackson – Most MVPs by an international player

Lauren Jackson, one of the most iconic figures in international basketball, holds the record for the most MVPs won by an international player in the WNBA, with three awards (2003, 2007, 2010).

The star, from Australia, was a dominant force both offensively and defensively during her time with the Seattle Storm. Her ability to score, defend and lead the transition made her a unique player of her generation.

While the WNBA is on pause, one question that remains unanswered during the offseason is what will Diana Taurasi do next. Will she retire or is she up to play another season? On Monday, the Phoenix Mercury veteran left fans wondering after a series of ads that seemed to address her future were released.

Taurasi published an Instagram post featuring several ads for the notes feature of the app with her face that included the emojis of one finger up and the ballerina, which presumably mean “one last dance.” Meanwhile, the caption reads: “Keep ‘em guessing.”

However, ESPN’s Michael Voepel claridied the rumors with a post on X: “The Instagram ad with Diana Taurasi was done before the WNBA season ended and has appeared elsewhere before today. It’s not intended as a ‘message’ about her future plans or anything else, her agent told ESPN.“

Two weeks ago, Taurasi told The Associated Press that she was going to take her time to decide whether she continues playing or not. “I don’t take retirement lightly. I know the minute I say it or announce it, whether it’s, you know, in a month or two months, I’m going to mean it,” she said.

The 42-year-old said that she was “in deep thought about it. I want to make the right decision, you know, and I’m just taking my time a little bit.” However, she added: “And you know, sometimes when the season ends, the last thing you want to think about is the next season.”

Diana Taurasi’s impressive career

Taurasi entered the league in 2004, and won that year’s WNBA Rookie of the Year award. With the Phoenix Mercury, she has won three championships (2007, 2009, 2014), and she has broken several records, including becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer and the first player to score 10,000 points in her career.

She has also won two WNBA Finals MVP trophies, and played in 11 All-Star Games. Meanwhile, she has won a record six Olympic Gold Medals. Meanwhile, her 2024 season ended when the Mercury lost in the first round to the Minnesota Lynx.

The Phoenix Mercury legend has made a name for herself in the WNBA ever since she was selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 draft. Nearly 17 years later, with multiple accolades under her belt and numerous records to show off, she is chasing Olympic glory with her national team.

Taurasi could be making her last appearance in an Olympic Games this year after enduring a vast, successful career. Here, take alook at Diana Taurasi’s profile checking outher height, weight, age, and net worth.

How old is Diana Taurasi?

A three-time WNBA champion, two-time WNBA Finals MVP, and ten-time WNBA All-Star, Diana Taurasi is 39 years old, having born on June 11, 1982, at Glendale, California. She began her path in high school basketballat Don Antonio Lugo High School before jumping to college level.

Taurasi then attended the University of Connecticut, where she kept on rising to become a great basketball player in the future. Following three NCAA titles and several individual honors, she embarked on the WNBA with the Phoenix Mercury being selected with the first pick overall in 2004.

How tall is Diana Taurasi?

At 6 ft 0 in, the 39-year-old WNBA legend performs as a point guard. In centimeters tall, Diana Taurasi is 183 cm tall. A WNBA MVP, she has dominated the league over the past two decades with incredible talent and ability to score at crucial moments of thegame, earning the nickname “White Mamba”, given to her by the NBA icon Kobe Bryant.

Diana Taurasi is the WNBA all-time top scorer since June 18, 2017, when she surpassedTina Thompson‘s 7,488 points. The point guard’s new record seems to be safe for a while, as she has amassed 8,981 points.

What is Diana Taurasi’s weight?

A renowned female basketball player, Diana Taurasi weighs 163 lb (74 kg). Asides from enduring a successful career in the WNBA, she has played a pivotal role in helping the USA women’s national team tasting success.

Diana Taurasi has been an Olympic champion four times so far, winning the gold medal in 2004 Athens, 2008 Beijing, 2012 London, and 2016 Río. Now she will chase her fifth gold medal in a row at Tokyo.

What is Diana Taurasi’s net worth?

Even though she won recognition as one of the greatest players in the WNBA history, Diana Taurasi has also shownher skills abroad for many years, performing for Spartak Moscow, Dinamo Moscow, Fenerbahce, Galatasaray, and UMMC Ekaterinmburg before returning to Phoenix.

Not only has she succeeded on the court throughout those years but has seen plenty of money come her way. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Diana Taurasi’s net worth is $1.5 million.