The Phoenix Mercury retired Diana Taurasi's No. 3 jersey during a halftime ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025 [1, 2].
The event honors one of the most decorated players in basketball history. Taurasi's legacy defines the modern era of the WNBA and the growth of the sport in the U.S.
The ceremony took place at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona [2]. During the event, the organization raised the No. 3 jersey to the rafters to ensure no other player in the franchise's history will wear the number [1].
Taurasi's career with the Mercury spanned 20 seasons [3]. Over two decades, she established herself as the WNBA's all-time leading scorer, recording over 10,000 points [4].
Her professional achievements include three WNBA championships [4]. Beyond the league, Taurasi earned six Olympic gold medals as a member of the U.S. national team [4]. The organization said her 11 All-Star selections were part of her career milestones [4].
The retirement of the jersey serves as a permanent marker of her impact on the Phoenix franchise. The Mercury organization said she elevated the team's profile on a global scale through her longevity and performance [1, 2].
“The Phoenix Mercury retired Diana Taurasi's No. 3 jersey during a halftime ceremony.”
The retirement of Taurasi's jersey marks the formal canonization of the WNBA's most prolific scorer. By honoring a player who spent two decades with a single franchise, the Phoenix Mercury emphasizes stability and loyalty in a league that has seen rapid expansion and increased player mobility. This move cements Taurasi's status as the foundational figure of the Mercury organization.
