Diana Taurasi, the WNBA's all-time leading scorer and one of women's basketball's greatest icons, has announced her retirement after an illustrious 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury. The team confirmed her retirement, which was shared during an exclusive interview with TIME, where the 42-year-old athlete expressed, “Mentally and physically, I’m just full. That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full and I’m happy.”

Over her remarkable career, Taurasi accumulated numerous accolades, including three WNBA championships and six Olympic gold medals, solidifying her status as a pioneer in women's sports. "Diana is the greatest to have ever played the game. I’ve been a fan of her my entire life," commented Mercury owner Mat Ishbia, highlighting her influence on both the franchise and the sport itself. “She’s had an incredible impact on our franchise, our community and the game of basketball.”

Throughout her tenure, Taurasi became a dominant force, finishing her career as the league's leading scorer with a staggering 10,646 points, nearly 3,000 points ahead of her closest competitor, Tina Charles. She participated in 11 All-Star games and was named MVP in 2009, further embellishing her decorated resume. Her contributions extended beyond her individual achievements, as she played a pivotal role in raising the profile of the WNBA since its inception.

During the recent seasons, she acknowledged the support from fans, especially after her last home game, where supporters urged her to play another year. Her decision to retire marks the end of an era in the WNBA, a league that has thrived and expanded due in part to her electrifying performances and exemplary leadership. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert recognized her substantial impact: "Diana Taurasi is one of the greatest competitors to ever play the game of basketball on any stage," she stated.

As tributes pour in from around the basketball community, her legacy as an unmatched competitor and mentor will resonate for generations. Hall of Fame player Rebecca Lobo and current star Angel Reese embodied the sentiment with messages of gratitude and admiration on social media platforms.

For more details, you can read the full articles from CBS News, NPR, HuffPost, and Reuters.