Diana Taurasi Joins Basketball Legends with ESPY Award

Mercury star becomes four-time winner of prestigious Best WNBA Player honor

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The WNBA has consistently showcased exceptional talent since its inception in 1997, with early stars like Lisa Leslie and Sheryl Swoopes laying the foundation for the league's success. Today, players like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Caitlin Clark continue to elevate the game, attracting new fans. The ESPY Awards have served as a prestigious benchmark for WNBA stardom, with Cynthia Cooper being the first to claim the Best WNBA Player award in 1998. Diana Taurasi emerged as a dominant force, winning the award in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012, joining an elite group of players. Now, A'ja Wilson is redefining WNBA excellence, securing a record-breaking fourth MVP award in 2025.

Why it matters

The ESPY Awards recognize individual brilliance and impact, which is crucial for the WNBA's growth. These accolades not only honor on-court performance but also a player's influence on the game and its fanbase. As the WNBA continues to attract global talent and leverage advanced analytics, the significance of these awards will only increase, shaping the future of player recognition and the league's overall popularity.

The details

Cynthia Cooper was the first player to claim the ESPY's Best WNBA Player award, dominating the competition from 1997 to 1999. Her success mirrored the Houston Comets' own dynasty, as the team secured four consecutive championships. Diana Taurasi then emerged as a dominant force, earning the ESPY award in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012. Her 2009 win coincided with a Mercury championship, where she averaged 20.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.2 steals. A'ja Wilson is currently redefining WNBA excellence, securing her fourth WNBA MVP award in 2025, surpassing Lisa Leslie's previous record.

  • Cynthia Cooper won the ESPY's Best WNBA Player award from 1997 to 1999.
  • Diana Taurasi won the ESPY award in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012.
  • A'ja Wilson secured her fourth WNBA MVP award in 2025.

The players

Cynthia Cooper

The first player to claim the ESPY's Best WNBA Player award, dominating the competition from 1997 to 1999.

Diana Taurasi

A dominant force in the WNBA, earning the ESPY award in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012.

A'ja Wilson

Currently redefining WNBA excellence, securing her fourth WNBA MVP award in 2025, surpassing Lisa Leslie's previous record.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The WNBA's continued growth and popularity are driven by exceptional talent and increased media coverage. As the league attracts more global talent and leverages advanced analytics, the significance of prestigious awards like the ESPY will only increase, shaping the future of player recognition and the league's overall impact.