Diana Taurasi, widely regarded as the greatest women’s basketball player of all time, officially announced her retirement on Tuesday after an extraordinary 20-year career in the WNBA. The 42-year-old Phoenix Mercury star, who was voted the “GOAT” by WNBA fans, leaves behind a legacy that reshaped women’s basketball.
A Storied Career: From UConn to WNBA Domination
Born on June 11, 1982, in Glendale, California, Taurasi was destined for greatness from an early age. She was raised in Chino, California, by her father, Mario, a former professional soccer player in Italy, and her mother, Liliana, who hailed from Argentina.
Taurasi’s basketball journey took off at Don Antonio Lugo High School, where she received multiple national honors, including the Cheryl Miller Award and the “Parade Magazine” National High School Player of the Year in 2000. Her dominance continued at the University of Connecticut (UConn), where she led the Huskies to three consecutive NCAA championships. Her talent earned her several prestigious accolades, including the 2003 and 2004 Honda Sports Awards and the 2003 Associated Press Player of the Year title.
In 2004, the Phoenix Mercury selected Taurasi as the first overall pick in the WNBA Draft. She made an immediate impact, winning WNBA Rookie of the Year and quickly establishing herself as a scoring powerhouse. Over the years, she racked up several honors, including WNBA MVP and multiple scoring titles. In August 2023, she became the first WNBA player to surpass 10,000 career points, further cementing her place among the game’s greatest athletes.
International Success and Record-Breaking Achievements
Beyond the WNBA, Taurasi built a remarkable international career. Between 2006 and 2010, she played for Spartak Moscow, helping the team secure four consecutive EuroLeague championships. She later joined UMMC Ekaterinburg in Russia, where she continued her dominance in European basketball.
Her international impact extended to the Olympic stage, where she was a vital member of Team USA. Taurasi won gold medals at the 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics, solidifying her reputation as a clutch performer. She also played a crucial role in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, further showcasing her elite talent on the global stage.
A Life Beyond Basketball: Family and Personal Life
Off the court, Taurasi has built a fulfilling life with her wife, Penny Taylor, a former WNBA player and Phoenix Mercury executive. The couple married in May 2017 and have two children. Their son, Leo Michael, was born in 2018, and in 2021, Taurasi famously rushed from a WNBA playoff game to witness the birth of their daughter.
Diana Taurasi’s Earnings and Net Worth
Taurasi’s financial success reflects her dominance on the court. While the WNBA’s maximum salary stood at $221,000 per season, her overseas contracts significantly increased her earnings. Playing for European teams such as UMMC Ekaterinburg, she earned over $1 million per season. In 2015, the Russian club paid her to skip the WNBA season and focus solely on their team.
As of 2024, Diana Taurasi’s estimated net worth is around $3.5 million. Her earnings come from WNBA contracts, lucrative overseas deals, endorsements, and sponsorships. While she never reached the financial levels of male basketball stars, her contributions to women’s basketball have been invaluable in pushing the game forward.
Taurasi’s Lasting Legacy and Impact on Women’s Basketball
Diana Taurasi’s influence extends far beyond statistics and championships. She redefined what it meant to be a dominant scorer and playmaker, paving the way for future generations of female basketball players. Her fierce competitiveness, leadership, and clutch performances made her a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide.
Her impact is also evident in the growing popularity of women’s basketball. As one of the sport’s biggest stars, she played a significant role in increasing viewership, inspiring young players, and advocating for better pay and opportunities for women in professional basketball.
What’s Next for Taurasi?
Although she has retired from playing, Taurasi’s journey in basketball is far from over. Many speculate that she could transition into coaching, broadcasting, or front-office roles within the WNBA or international leagues. Given her experience, leadership, and deep understanding of the game, she could continue shaping the future of women’s basketball in new and exciting ways.
Conclusion
Diana Taurasi’s retirement marks the end of an era for women’s basketball. From her early dominance at UConn to her historic career with the Phoenix Mercury and international success, she leaves behind a legacy that will be celebrated for generations. With a net worth of $3.5 million and an indelible impact on the game, Taurasi remains a symbol of excellence in women’s basketball. Her story is one of perseverance, talent, and an unwavering passion for the sport, making her one of the most legendary athletes of all time.
