Legendary basketball player Diana Torasi announced tonight that she has ended her career.
She stated this in an interview with Time magazine, and the Phoenix Mercury, the only club she played for in the American Women's Professional Basketball League (WNBA), confirmed the information.
"I'm mentally and physically full. That's the best way I can explain it, I'm full and happy," said Torasi.
Torasi (42) is the WNBA league record holder for the most points scored during her career, as well as a ten-time member of the competition's ideal team.
The American has won three WNBA league titles and six Olympic gold medals, while she has also been a six-time EuroLeague champion.
"Diana is the greatest to ever play the game. She is a consummate leader and teammate. She has had an incredible impact on our club, our community and the game of basketball. Her name is synonymous with the Phoenix Mercury and she will forever be a part of our family," said Phoenix Mercury owner Matt Isby.
Torasi was the WNBA's Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2009, the Finals MVP in 2009 and 2014, and was the competition's leading scorer five times.
"I thank Diana for everything she has brought to the WNBA, her passion, charisma and, above all, her relentless dedication to the game. She has left a lasting mark and the future of the WNBA is in a great position because of her impact, which will be felt for generations to come," said WNBA Commissioner Kathy Engelbert.
Torasi was selected as the first pick in the 2004 draft, after winning three consecutive state championships in college with the University of Connecticut team.
"As long as you're talking about college basketball, WNBA basketball, Olympic basketball, Diana is the greatest winner in the history of basketball, period. I've had the pleasure of being around her during a lot of those moments and she's the best team player I've ever coached," said University of Connecticut women's basketball coach Gino Auriemma.
The American played as a point guard and point guard, and in Europe she played for Dinamo Moscow, Spartak Moscow, Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray and Yekaterinburg.
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