Ahead of Diana Taurasi’s Ring of Honor induction this weekend, the Phoenix Mercury updated a street sign bearing her name and unveiled a new mural in downtown Phoenix.
Taurasi spent 20 seasons with the Phoenix Mercury and is the most decorated Olympian in women's basketball. At a press conference Thursday morning, Taurasi thanked the community for their support throughout her career.
“Every time I come to one of these I see some faces I hadn’t seen in a long time and that feels really good," Taurasi said. "More than any basket, more than any championship, it’s really the faces that have made this 20 years so important to me and my family.”
A street sign outside the Mortgage Matchup Center was symbolically renamed Taurasi Way in 2017, after she surpassed Tina Thompson to become the WNBA's all-time leading scorer. On Thursday morning, a new sign went up to reflect her 10,646 total career points.
“I just hope when people see that last name, it symbolizes all the things that it takes to really make it," Taurasi said. “That’s hard work, discipline, consistency and not only that, a great community.”
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego was there to celebrate Taurasi.
"[Taurasi] is not content with just greatness on the court," Gallego said. "She's also been an important contributor to our community, stepping up for parents and families, fighting for equality and more."
The Mercury also unveiled a mural of Taurasi along the South 1st street side of the arena, which was designed by local artist Paige Reesor.
Taurasi will be inducted into the Phoenix Mercury’s Ring of Honor as the team hosts the Portland Fire at 4 p.m. on Sunday.
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