Diana Taurasi, the all-time leading scorer of the WNBA and one of the sport's biggest stars, announced her retirement from professional basketball on Tuesday, marking the end of a storied 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury. At 42, Taurasi leaves as the game's preeminent player, holding numerous records and accolades including three WNBA championships, two Finals MVP awards, and six Olympic gold medals.
"Mentally and physically, I'm just full," Taurasi stated during her retirement announcement, reflecting on her decision to step back from the game she has dominated for two decades. "That's probably the best way I can describe it. I'm full and I'm happy." The announcement came as no surprise to those close to her, as Taurasi hinted at her impending retirement throughout the previous season. The Phoenix Mercury’s social media campaign, titled "If this is it..." acknowledged the possibility but did not dedicate resources to create the extensive farewell tour many might expect from someone of her caliber.
Since being drafted first overall by the Mercury in the 2004 WNBA Draft, Taurasi has significantly influenced the sport of basketball. Over her illustrious career, she amassed 10,646 points, making her the leading scorer in WNBA history—nearly 3,000 points more than Tina Charles, who is second on the list. Taurasi is also known for her remarkable shooting ability, having made more three-pointers than any player before her.
"Diana is one of the greatest competitors to ever play the game of basketball on any stage," WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert remarked following Taurasi's announcement. Engelbert highlighted their mutual gratitude and respect, emphasizing how Taurasi has captivated audiences globally throughout her career.
Taurasi's influence extends beyond her impressive statistics. Her competitive drive inspired countless other athletes and contributed to the rising popularity of women's basketball and the WNBA itself. "You can't tell the story of the WNBA without Diana," stated NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, acknowledging her role in building the league. With elevated viewership numbers and new franchise additions, the WNBA enters the next chapter of its sprawling growth, much thanks to players like Taurasi.
Her accolades speak volumes to her skill and tenacity on the court. A three-time WNBA champion (2007, 2009, 2014) and MVP (2009), Taurasi never faltered under pressure. She led the Mercury to playoff glory and was often at the center of electrifying moments, establishing herself as one of the most entertaining players to watch. Her deep shooting range and ability to make the game-changer plays set her apart.
During her time with the U.S. national team, Taurasi became the first player—male or female—to win six Olympic gold medals, achieving this feat across five Olympic Games from 2004 to 2021. Many viewed Taurasi as a linchpin of Olympic success, going undefeated across 42 games.
Despite her accolades, Taurasi remains humble about her achievements. "My scoring record, or the six gold medals, someone's going to come around and put those records in a different way, different name," Taurasi told TIME, hinting at her belief in the cyclical nature of sports. She expressed optimism for the future, acknowledging the next generation's potential to redefine these records.
Although Taurasi's playing days are over, her mark on the game will not fade. Fellow athletes, including LeBron James, praised her hard work and competitive spirit. "It’s been an honor to be around her and watch her career," James said. "She’s just super-duper down-to-earth, supercool, super witty, talks her sh*t too. It’s always fun being around her."
Taurasi’s roots also tell part of her inspiring story. Born on June 11, 1982, to immigrant parents—her father was born in Italy and her mother from Argentina—she witnessed how her family sacrificed to support her immense talent. It was basketball, Taurasi revealed, which brought unity and identity to her upbringing. From playing with makeshift equipment at home to winning NCAA championships with the University of Connecticut, each milestone helped shape the player she became.
Throughout her career, Taurasi played for prestigious teams both at the collegiate level and overseas, capturing several EuroLeague championships along the way. Her professional life has been filled with many triumphs, exciting moments, and lessons learned, even when she would forget simple things like her jersey before games—traits which showcased her human side and relatability to fans.
The future for Taurasi lies beyond basketball, as she intends on focusing on her family. Married to former teammate Penny Taylor, they share their lives with their two children, Leo and Isla, engaging with sports as fans and parents. Taurasi expressed satisfaction with taking on the role of homemaker and supportive parent, sharing her aspirations with her family at the center of it all.
While she officially retires from professional basketball, Taurasi leaves with fond memories and emotions tied to her competitive career. "I'm going to miss the competition, trying to get to be my best every offseason, the bus rides, the inside jokes. I'm going to miss the locker room and all the things it means to be on a team. I'll deeply miss those things," she concluded.
Diana Taurasi will always be celebrated as one of the greatest of all time, with marks left unchallenged and legacies carved deeply within the walls of basketball history. The spirit of Taurasi will forever thrive, inspiring future generations of athletes—an embodiment of excellence on and off the court.