Diana Taurasi, a Popular name with excellence in women’s basketball, has officially announced her retirement in 2025, marking the end of an illustrious 20-year career in the WNBA. The 42-year-old basketball icon, known for her fierce competitiveness and incredible scoring ability, leaves behind a legacy unmatched in the sport. With a net worth of $3.5 million, multiple WNBA titles, and Olympic gold medals, Taurasi has cemented herself as the GOAT of women’s basketball.
Reflecting on her decision, Taurasi told Time Magazine, “Mentally and physically, I’m just full. That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full and I’m happy.” This statement perfectly encapsulates her journey—one filled with passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
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A Career Like No Other
Born on June 11, 1982, in Glendale, California, Taurasi grew up in Chino, California, where her love for basketball began at an early age. With a father who was a professional soccer player in Italy, and an equally athletic mother from Argentina, it was no surprise that she developed a competitive spirit and an unmatched work ethic.
Taurasi’s talent became evident in high school when she earned multiple national honors, including the Cheryl Miller Award and Parade Magazine’s National High School Player of the Year in 2000. From there, she took her skills to the University of Connecticut (UConn), where she led the Huskies to three consecutive NCAA championships. Her stellar performance earned her prestigious awards, including the 2003 and 2004 Honda Sports Awards and the 2003 Associated Press Player of the Year.
Dominating the WNBA
In 2004, Taurasi was selected as the first overall pick in the WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury. Right from her rookie season, she made an impact, becoming the seventh player in history to win an NCAA title, a WNBA championship, and an Olympic gold medal. Over the years, Taurasi added numerous accolades to her resume, including:
- WNBA Rookie of the Year (2004)
- Three-time WNBA Champion (2007, 2009, 2014)
- WNBA MVP and Scoring Champion
- WNBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer (First to reach 10,000 points in 2023)
- 10-time WNBA All-Star
- Five Olympic Gold Medals (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020)
Even in her final seasons, Taurasi remained a dominant force, helping lead the Phoenix Mercury to the playoffs in her last year in the league.
A Global Basketball Icon
Beyond her WNBA career, Taurasi thrived internationally, playing for some of the most elite clubs in Europe. She led Spartak Moscow to four consecutive EuroLeague championships (2006-2010) and later played for UMMC Ekaterinburg in Russia, where she earned over $1 million per season—significantly more than her WNBA salary. In 2015, UMMC Ekaterinburg even paid her to sit out an entire WNBA season to focus on European competition.
Her impact wasn’t just limited to clubs; she was also a key player for Team USA, helping secure multiple Olympic gold medals and FIBA World Championships.
Life Beyond Basketball
While Taurasi dominated on the court, her personal life has been just as fulfilling. She married former WNBA star Penny Taylor in 2017, and together, they have two children. In a memorable moment during the 2021 WNBA Playoffs, Taurasi rushed home after a game to witness the birth of her daughter, showcasing her unwavering commitment to both her career and family.
Salary and Financial Success
Taurasi was one of the highest-paid players in the WNBA, earning $221,000 per season. However, her earnings skyrocketed when she played overseas, where she commanded contracts of over $1 million annually. With endorsement deals, international contracts, and her WNBA earnings, Taurasi has accumulated an estimated net worth of $3.5 million.
The Greatest of All Time
Taurasi’s impact on basketball is immeasurable. She changed the game, inspired countless young athletes, and set records that may take decades to break. When WNBA fans voted her as the “GOAT” in 2021, it was a testament to her influence, not just as a player but as a cultural icon in women’s sports.
As she steps away from professional basketball, there is no doubt that Taurasi’s legacy will live on. Whether as a mentor, coach, or ambassador for the sport, her name will always be synonymous with greatness.
While fans will miss seeing her on the court, her impact on the game will never fade. Thank you, Diana Taurasi, for two decades of greatness. Enjoy your well-earned retirement!
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