Who is wnba goat

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Last updated: April 17, 2026

Quick Answer: The WNBA's GOAT is widely considered to be Diana Taurasi, who holds the all-time scoring record with over 10,000 points and has won three championships with the Phoenix Mercury since her debut in 2004.

Key Facts

Diana Taurasi scored over 10,000 career points by 2023
She won three WNBA championships in 2007, 2009, and 2014
Taurasi was drafted first overall in 2004 by the Phoenix Mercury
She earned 10 All-WNBA First Team selections between 2005 and 2022
Taurasi is the only player with over 7,400 career assists and 1,500 three-pointers

Overview

When discussing the greatest of all time (GOAT) in the WNBA, one name consistently rises above the rest: Diana Taurasi. Since her debut in 2004, Taurasi has redefined excellence in women's professional basketball through sustained performance, leadership, and record-breaking achievements. Her longevity and impact have made her a benchmark for greatness in the league.

While other legends like Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, and Candace Parker have left indelible marks, Taurasi's statistical dominance and accolades give her the edge in most GOAT conversations. Her combination of scoring, playmaking, and championship success sets her apart in WNBA history.

Diana Taurasi became the WNBA's all-time leading scorer in 2023, surpassing 10,000 career points, a milestone no other player has reached.
She was selected first overall in the 2004 WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury after a standout collegiate career at the University of Connecticut.
Taurasi has won three WNBA championships, all with the Phoenix Mercury, in the years 2007, 2009, and 2014.
She has earned 10 All-WNBA First Team selections between 2005 and 2022, the most in league history.
Taurasi is the only player in WNBA history with over 7,400 career assists and 1,500 made three-pointers, showcasing her dual-threat capability.

How It Works

Defining the GOAT in the WNBA involves evaluating a blend of statistics, awards, championships, and cultural impact over a sustained period. While subjective, the consensus often centers on players who have maintained elite performance across multiple eras.

Scoring Titles: Taurasi led the league in scoring five times (2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011), demonstrating consistent offensive dominance over a decade.
Playoff Performance: She holds the record for most playoff points in WNBA history, with over 1,700 career postseason points by 2023.
International Success: Taurasi won five Olympic gold medals with Team USA (2004–2020), underscoring her global impact and elite status.
Longevity: Playing professionally into her 40s, she has competed in over 500 regular-season games, a testament to durability and consistency.
Awards and Honors: She has been named WNBA MVP once (2009) and earned 14 All-Star selections, the most in league history.
Three-Point Shooting: Taurasi holds the WNBA record for most career three-pointers made, surpassing 1,500 by 2023, revolutionizing long-range scoring in the league.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how Diana Taurasi compares to other top WNBA legends based on key career statistics and accolades:

Player	Championships	Points	All-Star Appearances	MVP Awards
Diana Taurasi	3	10,000+	14	1
Candace Parker	2	6,500+	10	1
Lisa Leslie	3	6,200+	8	2
Sheryl Swoopes	3	5,500+	7	1
Maya Moore	4	5,800+	6	1

While Maya Moore has more championships and Lisa Leslie earned more MVP awards, Taurasi's scoring volume, longevity, and all-around contributions give her a statistical edge. Her ability to maintain elite performance into her 40s further strengthens her case as the most complete player in league history.

Why It Matters

Recognizing the WNBA's GOAT is about more than just stats—it's about legacy, influence, and the evolution of the game. Taurasi's career has inspired a generation of players and elevated the visibility of women's basketball worldwide.

Taurasi's success helped increase media coverage of the WNBA, contributing to higher viewership and sponsorship deals in the 2010s.
Her international stardom, especially in Europe, helped globalize the WNBA brand and attract international talent.
She became a role model for young athletes, particularly in promoting mental toughness and leadership on and off the court.
Taurasi's longevity challenged perceptions about age and performance in women's sports, proving elite play can extend into the late 30s and beyond.
Her outspoken advocacy for equal pay and better conditions in women's sports has influenced league policies and collective bargaining.
She helped the Phoenix Mercury become one of the WNBA's most recognizable franchises, boosting team merchandise sales and fan engagement.

Diana Taurasi's impact transcends the box score. As the WNBA continues to grow, her legacy as the league's greatest player serves as both a standard and an inspiration for future generations.