Diana Taurasi Retires: Ranking the Top Contenders to Break the WNBA Scoring Record
The WNBA is witnessing the end of an era as Diana Taurasi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the league’s history, retires after an illustrious career. With the all-time scoring record now standing as one of her lasting legacies, fans and analysts alike are already looking ahead to determine which active players have the best shot at surpassing her milestone.
Two names rise above the rest: A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart. Both players are already dominant forces in the league and have the scoring prowess, longevity potential, and consistency required to challenge Taurasi’s record.
Breaking Down Diana Taurasi’s All-Time Scoring Record
Diana Taurasi has set an incredible benchmark for scoring in the WNBA. Her combination of longevity, elite skillset, and competitiveness has made her the league’s all-time leading scorer with an imposing total.
Key Stats Defining Taurasi’s Legacy:
- Total Career Points: Over 10,000 points
- Career Scoring Average: Around 19.0 points per game
- Years Active: 19+ seasons
- Multiple Scoring Titles: Proving sustained offensive excellence
Surpassing Taurasi’s record will require a combination of skill, longevity, and consistency, something only a few active players appear capable of achieving. Let’s assess the top contenders.
A’ja Wilson: The Top Candidate to Challenge Taurasi’s Record
A’ja Wilson has emerged as a dominant force in the WNBA with her impressive scoring ability and relentless work ethic. Since being drafted first overall in 2018 by the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson has consistently put up elite scoring numbers.
Why A’ja Wilson Could Break the Scoring Record:
- Elite Scoring Ability: Wilson averages over 20 points per game and has shown continuous improvement in her offensive game.
- Durability: She has remained relatively healthy throughout her career, an essential factor for longevity.
- Versatility in Attack: Whether it’s inside scoring, mid-range jumpers, or evolving perimeter shooting, she scores in multiple ways.
- Team Structure: Playing for the Aces, a high-powered offensive team, maximizes her scoring opportunities.
If Wilson maintains her current scoring pace and plays for at least 15+ seasons, she could realistically challenge Taurasi’s record.
Breanna Stewart: A Strong Contender for the Scoring Throne
Breanna Stewart is another superstar with all the tools needed to challenge Taurasi’s record. Drafted in 2016, her career has been marked by individual dominance and team success, solidifying her as one of the league’s premier scorers.
Why Stewart Has a Shot at the Record:
- Consistent High Scoring Averages: Stewart regularly scores 20+ points per game and has the skills to sustain this output long-term.
- Three-Level Scorer: Her ability to score inside, from mid-range, and beyond the arc makes her a difficult player to guard.
- Proven Championship Pedigree: Stewart’s success at both the collegiate and professional levels showcases her commitment to excellence.
- Longevity Potential: If she stays healthy, Stewart’s offensive production can remain elite for years to come.
While Stewart has had some injury struggles, her offensive production remains among the best in the league. If she continues playing at a high level for another decade, breaking Taurasi’s record becomes a real possibility.
Other Dark Horse Candidates to Watch
While Wilson and Stewart are the clear frontrunners, a few other players could emerge as long-term scoring threats:
- Arike Ogunbowale: A proven scoring machine with a high shot volume, Ogunbowale has the potential to put up massive career numbers.
- Sabrina Ionescu: If Ionescu continues developing her offensive game, she could become an elite scorer capable of challenging long-standing records.
- Kelsey Plum: A dynamic and efficient scorer who could rack up significant totals with sustained production.
The Challenges of Breaking the WNBA Scoring Record
Even for the brightest stars, achieving Taurasi’s scoring record won’t be an easy feat. Several factors determine whether a player can break the record:
1. Longevity
Taurasi played close to two decades in the league. Any player attempting to break her record must not only maintain a high scoring average but also sustain it across 15+ seasons.
2. Health and Durability
Injuries have derailed many great careers. Wilson, Stewart, and other contenders must stay healthy to have a realistic chance at the record.
3. Pace of Play
The WNBA continues to evolve, with game tempo and offensive efficiency increasing. This could benefit future scoring leaders, but balancing efficiency with longevity remains crucial.
4. Team Roles and Fit
Being the primary offensive option for a team is crucial. Players who share the spotlight with multiple scorers may see lower individual point totals over time.
Conclusion: Who Will Be the Next Scoring Champion?
Diana Taurasi’s retirement leaves an unforgettable mark on the WNBA, but records are meant to be broken. A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart stand as the most likely candidates to challenge Taurasi’s all-time scoring record, each possessing the talent, consistency, and longevity potential needed for such a historic feat.
While their individual paths to the top may differ, one thing is certain—fans will witness an exciting new era of scoring dominance in the WNBA. Whether it’s Wilson’s inside dominance, Stewart’s all-around offensive brilliance, or a surprise contender emerging, the future of elite scoring in the league is in good hands.
