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"Pls don't hype this": Napheesa Collier clarifies hilarious comment on "ending" Diana Taurasi's career on Wednesday
Napheesa Collier and the Minnesota Lynx kicked off their playoff campaign with a 102-95 victory over the Diana Taurasi-led Phoenix Mercury in Game 1 at home.
When asked about Phoenix Mercury guard Diana Taurasi's potential retirement, in the post game press conference Lynx MVP candidate Napheesa Collier jokingly replied,
"Hopefully, we can end her career on Wednesday."
This comment sparked consternation online, prompting Collier to clarify her statement.
"Okay, I just meant that we want to win the game on Wednesday so we don't go to a Game 3. Please don't hype this" Collier explained.
Her clarification makes sense, given the WNBA playoff structure, where the top-seeded team plays the first two games at home and Game 3 on the road.
Collier and Taurasi were recently teammates for Team USA in the Paris 2024 Olympics. They also hail from the same alma mater, both products of Geno Auriemma's University of Connecticut dynasty.
Is Diana Taurasi retiring?
Diana Taurasi, arguably the GOAT of the WNBA, holds records for most pointers made and most points scored. After completing her 20th regular season, rumors about her impending retirement swirled.
Her team, the Phoenix Mercury, fueled speculation on September 9 by posting on X,
"If this is it, you have two more opportunities to see the Greatest of All Time at home."
Taurasi, who turned 42 this year, has previously explained when she plans to stop playing with a characteristically curt response.
"When I suck, I won't play." - Diana Taurasi on her retirement plans
However, she hasn't outlined a clear retirement plan. When asked if her recent game was her last in LA, Taurasi sidestepped the question, referencing many great memories.
Pressed further, she said,
"The last couple of weeks have been nerve-wracking... I don't want to make any emotional, rash decisions. I know the end is near, but when that is, I don't know."
If Taurasi does retire at season's end, fans will potentially have just one more chance to see the WNBA legend in action.
Game 2 of the playoff series is scheduled for September 25. If the Mercury win, the series will extend to a third game, held at home for the Mercury.
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